The court ends a case by signing a final order. After that appeal period runs, the divorce is finally final. Nothing could be worse than getting married the day after the judge signs the final order, only to find out a week later that the former spouse has appealed the case. If the parties cannot agree to a settlement, there will be a trial. Sleeping with another person, even after separation, can give the other spouse grounds for divorce.
Many more details exist than can be explored here.
For an excellent discussion of considerations for settlement, see chapter 2 of The Single Parent's Money Guide, by Emily Card and Christie Watts Kelly, published by McMillan. A divorce settlement can affect the relationship between two adults for a long time, especially if there are children. The client needs to collect important documents, read the material the lawyer gives out, and explore divorce recovery options, such as counseling, recovery groups, and self-help books on coping and financial advice. Criminal and civil implications exist when taping any telephone conversation. Contrary to popular belief, taping conversations is a complex legal situation.