One of the best pieces of post-divorce advice in Pasadena that someone could give is to be cautious with online dating after your divorce. Online dating might seem like the safest way to meet someone new. However, even though online dating has created lasting relationships for some people, it is by no means a foolproof way to strike up a love connection. If you're going to try dating online, you need to be aware of the potential pitfalls.
Recently, Brian Matthew Cornelius, a 36-year-old Sturgeon Lake, Minnesota man, was charged with two counts of gross misdemeanor stalking after setting up an elaborate online profile to entice his ex-wife into sharing the intimate details of her personal life. Through his fake online dating profile, he convinced her to skip a court appearance where she was seeking an order of protection against him.
To protect yourself, you need to be extremely cautious about what information you share online. Don't talk about your ex or provide information that would reflect badly on you if it came up in court.
If you do decide to meet someone in person, always arrange to meet in a public place. Tell a friend where you are going and provide your own transportation so you can easily remove yourself from the situation if things get out of hand.
Above all else, trust your instincts. If an online encounter seems fishy, it probably is. It is always better to err on the side of caution than to make a mistake that could leave you in danger.
Most divorce lawyers agree that it's not uncommon for exes to try to use modern technology to harass or intimidate their former spouse, especially if they exhibited controlling behaviors during the marriage.
If a person you've met online seems to know too much about your past, meet with your attorney immediately. If your ex is engaging in other inappropriate behaviors, such as making harassing phone calls, showing up at your home without a legitimate reason, or following you at your workplace, you might be able to obtain an order of protection.
How Can We Help?
If you are concerned about the behavior of your ex, please call our office at (626) 683-8113 or email us at info@PasadenaLawOffice.com. Our team of skilled Pasadena family law attorneys can handle a variety of divorce-related concerns.