Does Polyamory Lead to Divorce?
In a polyamorous relationship, more than two people are involved. For many married couples, polyamory can save the marriage, while for others, it can be the demise of their relationship.
But can polyamory result in divorce?
What Is Polyamory?
Polyamory is not a new concept, as it has been practiced for years, and the term was coined in the 1970s during the “free love” era.
When a person is polyamorous, it means they have or desire intimate relationships with more than one person at the same time. Those involved in polyamorous relationships have full knowledge of the situation and give their consent.
Is Polyamory Legal?
Polyamory is often confused with polygamy, but the two are entirely different. In a polygamous situation, a person has more than one spouse at the same time. Polygamy is illegal in the United States. However, because polyamory involves non-marital partners, it is not illegal.
Polyamory During Marriage
Many individuals believe in marriage but do not necessarily believe in monogamy. This often results in the formation of polyamorous relationships after couples marry.
Polyamory looks different for every couple. Some polyamorous relationships are strictly emotional, while others are strictly sexual. Certain situations combine emotion and sex, with everyone “dating” each other. What matters is discussing the circumstances with your spouse and determining what works best for everyone involved.
While some may look at polyamory as cheating, it is not technically considered adultery. In an adulterous situation, one spouse keeps the affair a secret from the other. With polyamory, everyone involved knows about each other and agrees to the unique type of relationship structure.
As long as both spouses have knowledge of the situation and give their consent, polyamory can work for many relationships. In fact, polyamory is sometimes what keeps couples together in the long run.
Turning to Polyamory to Save a Marriage — Does It Work?
Sometimes, marriages hit a breaking point, and spouses begin considering divorce. But when there’s still a strong bond and love shared between two people, they may open their minds to alternatives that don’t end in separation or the formal dissolution of their marriage. That’s where polyamory comes in.
Depending on the situation, some couples may benefit from “testing out” polyamory. Although it could be odd and awkward initially, especially for couples who have remained in traditional, monogamous marriages for many years, it may be the glue that keeps the marriage together.
Polyamory often works for spouses who feel their sexual needs are not met in some way or another. Experimenting with polyamory could allow spouses to satisfy these needs while remaining in their marriage.
Based on the circumstances and what spouses agree to, one spouse alone could foster outside relationships (often called mono-poly or poly-mono). In contrast, the other spouse remains loyal and monogamous. In other situations, both spouses may seek relationships outside their marriage.
When Polyamory Doesn’t Work
Polyamory doesn’t work for everyone. This is especially true when one spouse believes in polyamory while the other does not and wishes to remain monogamous. Polyamory can also violate many people’s morals and values.
If spouses are on different pages concerning polyamory, or they try polyamory and it fails, it could lead to divorce. Even if you try polyamory as an alternative to divorce, at the end of the day, you may realize that formally ending your marriage may be the better solution.
When polyamory causes your divorce, you can turn to a skilled divorce attorney for assistance.
Obtaining Legal Guidance for Your Divorce Case
Navigating a divorce case can be challenging. Therefore, when you’re ready to take the first step, do not hesitate to consult with a local divorce lawyer. An attorney can protect your rights and help you reach a favorable case result.
Contact a Los Angeles Family Law Lawyer Today
If you’re going through a divorce, you need a strong team on your side fighting for your rights. Call Berenji & Associates Divorce Lawyers today to know how we can assist you.
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