Legal Question in Family Law in Virginia

sex during separation

My husband and I have been separated

since July 06. He has been living in an

apartment since July (with his name on

the lease). He and I had sex in

February. Does having sex restart our

divorce time clock? If we choose, can

we still file for divorce in July 07?


Asked on 3/12/07, 6:32 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys

Michael Hendrickson Law Office Michael E. Hendrickson

Re: sex during separation

According to the no-fault divorce statute, the parties are to live separate and apart without cohabitation (for the required time period). Does one sexual encounter

constitute "cohabitation" within the meaning of the statute. I would think not unless one of the parties to the divorce or his or her attorney wants

to make an issue of it. (In other words, if this dog is still sleeping,

let her continue to snooze----at least until the divorce is finalized.)

Read more
Answered on 3/12/07, 6:46 pm
Ruth Emily Kochard Ruth Emily Kochard, Counselor at Law

Re: sex during separation

The resumption of sexual relations sets the time period for separation back to zero. The separation, and the ultimate filing of the complaint, will be calculated from the time of the last sexual act.

Read more
Answered on 3/12/07, 7:00 pm


Related Questions & Answers

More Family Law, Divorce, Child Custody and Adoption questions and answers in Virginia