Papers are filed, the dissolution action is pending before the Court, and you may think you are on your way to living separate and apart from the other person for the rest of your lives. Don't start changing the keys on the door too fast. Neither party is required to leave the marital residence during the divorce unless a court orders one party to leave. If you and your spouse cannot reach an agreement regarding which of you will leave the residence during the divorce, you may seek a temporary order for exclusive possession of the home until the case is concluded.

The judge will only grant your temporary order for exclusive possession of the home under certain conditions. You must be able to show that physical or emotional harm may result. Abusive behavior is one basis for seeking temporary possession of the home. In addition, talk to your attorney about other factors that may be relevant.

Other factors that may be important in determining who stays in the home include:

  • Whether one of you owned the home prior to the marriage.
  • After provisions are made for payment of temporary support, who can afford to remain in the home or obtain other housing.
  • Who is most likely to be awarded the home in the divorce.
  • Options available to each of you for the other temporary housing, including other homes or family members who live in the area.
  • Special needs that would make a move unduly burdensome, such as a health condition.
  • Self-employment from home, which could not be readily moved, such as a child-care business.

Absent being able to show the court that it is necessary for one person to leave the residence, you may find that you have to continue residing together until one of you voluntarily moves out, or the divorce is final and the home is either ordered sold or awarded to one of you.

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.