How To Confront a Cheating Spouse

At the beginning of your marriage, the last thing you expect is that your relationship will end over cheating. However, infidelity is particularly common and is one of the most common causes of divorce. Regardless of the circumstances, it’s a painful, emotional experience.

So, what do you do if you find out your spouse is cheating on you? You’ll likely want to confront them. But before speaking to them about their infidelity, it’s important that you take some preliminary steps. 

What To Do If Your Spouse Is Cheating

Finding out your spouse is cheating on you can put you on an emotional rollercoaster. Still, it’s best not to let your emotions take over entirely and do or say things you may later regret. Taking certain steps can help you when you finally speak to your spouse.

Recognize the Signs

First and foremost, it’s essential to recognize the signs of cheating. 

Some of the common signs your spouse may be stepping out of your marriage include:

  • Less interest in affection and sex
  • More time spent away from home to work, run “errands,” or be with friends
  • Suddenly shifting toward being withdrawn and private
  • Unexplained expenses
  • Protectiveness over devices like cell phones and computers
  • Periods of unexplained unreachability
  • False accusations that you are cheating
  • Weak or inconsistent explanations

It’s crucial to carefully evaluate your spouse’s actions when you’re considering the signs of cheating. If your spouse works late once or twice, it doesn’t automatically mean they’re cheating. However, if you can relate to one or more of these typical signs, and it happens frequently, you may need to start looking for concrete evidence. 

Collect Evidence

If you want to confront your spouse about their cheating, it’s best to do so when you can substantiate your claims. Even if your spouse is cheating, they likely won’t admit it. If you have no proof, they’re more likely to gaslight you.

Evidence of an affair can include:

  • Communication, including texts, emails, and social media direct messages
  • Receipts 
  • Photos and videos
  • Witness confirmation

A cheating spouse can be quite the manipulator and have experience with covering their tracks. They feel confident that their spouses won’t ever find out, especially without proof. That’s why it’s particularly important to take your time gathering evidence, as this leaves little room for your spouse to lie their way out of it. 

Collecting evidence can be difficult in some cases. However, this step is very much worth the effort for multiple reasons. 

Confront Your Spouse

Finally, once you have the information and proof you need, you can confront your spouse. While talking to your spouse about their infidelity can be emotional and uncomfortable, it’s critical to remain as calm as possible.

Tell your spouse you know what they’re doing and ask them to explain themselves. If they deny, which they likely will, you can pull out your evidence. Showing them proof of their extracurricular activities backs them into a wall, and you may be more likely to get some truth out of them. 

Meet With an Attorney

Once you’ve listened to what your spouse has to say and have decided to explore your options, discuss your situation with a skilled divorce attorney. A lawyer can provide qualified advice and guidance, especially concerning divorce matters like property division. They will be able to help you decide how to proceed with ending your marriage. 

Know When It’s Time To Say Goodbye To a Cheating Spouse

Getting divorced is never easy, especially when it’s happening due to infidelity. Nonetheless, it’s important to know when to put yourself and your happiness first and let go of your cheating spouse. 

When you’re ready to take the first step toward ending your marriage, consult a local divorce lawyer. An attorney can give you the kindness and support you need during a challenging time.

Contact Our Divorce Law Firm in Orlando, FL

Contact the experienced Orlando divorce lawyers at McMichen, Cinami & Demps today for legal assistance. Contact our Orlando, FL office at (407) 898-2161 to schedule a free consultation.

McMichen, Cinami & Demps – Orlando Office
1500 E Concord St
Orlando, FL 32803