disclosing pregnancy to stbx-wife

[notsowisewoman]

My partner has been separated for over 2 years but although the nisi has been issued no consent order has been put before the court as his stbx and her solicitor seem intent on dragging out every tiny point (i.e. they went to mediation, she agreed terms although she had deliberately not taken advice on financials, she then tore up the agreement and insisted everything went via solicitors letter, they are now back where they started after mediation...).

I am now 5 months pregnant and we (and DPs solicitor) really thought it would be wrapped up by now. But no.

We have no plans at all for our child to affect the level of child and spousal maintenance offered - our feeling being we chose to have another child ergo his other 2 children should not be penalised for this.

So my point (finally) is at what point are we legally obligated to tell his ex. I am very much starting to show although hiding it well so will obviously need to tell his children soon but we are keen to try and hold off until the consent order is sorted - but do not wish to do anything illegal.

Any advice gratefully received!

[Tewa]

You have no legal obligation to let her know.

Be aware however that is far from common for an ex to cause problems when stepmothers announce they are pregnant. Look after yourself.

[notsowisewoman]

Thanks Tewa, that is what I am worried about. I currently have a very good relationship with DPs children and I would hate that to be jeopardised.

We are also worried that if she finds out pre consent order that she will drag things on for even longer. We have put legal provision (life insurance, wills etc) in place as we will be unmarried when bump is born but it would be better if it was resolved before then.