During divorce, many are concerned about utilities being shut off by their partner, or they may have the question, “Can I shut off utilities during divorce?” or “Who is responsible for paying the bills during divorce?” Well, all your basic doubts regarding utilities during divorce are going to be discussed in this article. So read till the end!
Can I shut off utilities during divorce?
UTILITIES are basically the essential services like water, electricity, gas, internet, etc. As you are separating from your partner, you may want to know “Can I shut off utilities during divorce?”. Or, “Should I wait until I get a divorce?”.
In general, you can’t shut off these essential services, as it is illegal. In most states, it’s against the law to disconnect or shut off utilities during the divorce process. But if you want to shut them off, you have to give notice to the other partner or get a court order that specifies that you can shut off the utilities.
In most states, both partners need to agree on shutting off the utilities, especially if both have names on the bills. Moreover, if you’re the one who is paying the utilities, you need to pay them during the divorce process, whether your partner is living in the house or not.
Under some specific conditions or if there is a court’s law supporting this, only then can you shut off the utilities during divorce. But this is a rare case.
If you shut off the utilities during divorce without giving any notice period or court order, that can be used against you in court as abusive behavior. So just be very careful with your every decision. It’s better to consult an attorney to know the law of the place where your divorce is taking place. Because they can guide you better with all the options available as per your divorce case.
What if your partner turned off the utilities during divorce?
Sometimes, in bitterness or anger, your partner turned off the utilities during divorce to harass you. But always remember, even if it’s you or your partner (who is responsible for paying the bills), you are not allowed to turn off the utilities (as per law in most states).
So, if your partner turned them off without informing you, you should immediately consult your attorney. Because they will guide you on what you should do before restoring them (like sending notice to your partner, making copies as a proof, and so on). You should know your rights to protect yourself from unnecessary harassment.
Always remember: Your every action counts and can affect the divorce case. So never take any action out of anger or bitterness.
Who is responsible for paying the bills during divorce?
Well, the one whose name is on the utility bills, i.e., the one who is paying bills prior to filing for divorce, is responsible for paying bills during divorce. This simply means you should continue paying the bills until you get a divorce.
For further information and options, consult your attorney. They help you know what you can do and what you can’t do during the divorce process.
This is all about utilities and paying bills during divorce. I hope this article helped clear all your doubts regarding “Can I shut off utilities during divorce?”. I know divorce is hard. But don’t take any action out of anger or bitterness; instead consult your attorney.
