A partner’s compulsive pornography use can affect trust, intimacy and emotional well-being in a marriage. In some cases, it can cross irredeemable boundaries that shake the foundation of a marriage. New Jersey law does not recognize pornography addiction as a separate ground for divorce. Instead the circumstances may be relevant to an existing fault-based ground, while many spouses choose to file based on irreconcilable differences.
Behaviors that might create conflict in a marriage
Long before the marriage reaches a breaking point, pornographic addiction shows clear warning signs in the day-to-day life of couples. Some of the early red flags may include:
- Withdrawal from family life: Spending increased amount of time online while neglecting family, social and professional commitments and activities
- Changes in intimacy: New expectations or requests that create discomfort, pressure or conflict between spouses
- Increased secrecy: Password-protecting previously shared devices and frequently clearing browsing history
- Reduced intimacy: Unexplained drop in physical connection and intimacy
- Financial secrecy: Defensiveness over bank statements, hidden credit card charges and new online payment accounts
In New Jersey, pornography addiction is not a separate statutory ground for divorce. Depending on the facts, a spouse may consider a fault-based ground such as extreme cruelty. However, pornography use alone may not satisfy that standard. The conduct and its effect on the marriage would need to meet New Jersey’s legal requirements for that ground. A spouse may also file on the no-fault ground of irreconcilable differences when those differences have caused the breakdown of the marriage for at least six months and there is no reasonable prospect of reconciliation.
Focus on the conduct and its impact
The emotional trauma of dealing with a partner with a pornography addiction can be overwhelming. If your partner’s behavior has pushed your relationship to an irreversible breaking point, seeking the help of an experienced divorce attorney could help you explore your legal options and ensure your rights are protected.
