Why more people seek to divorce in January more than any other month could be down to the stresses and strains of Christmas. Many couples with relationship problems pin their hopes on the festive period, typically a time for family, bringing them closer together. It can also put financial pressures on couples, with everything from presents to food to buy. When a ‘make or break’ Christmas doesn’t work out, or even makes problems worse, thoughts can easily turn to divorce in the New Year.

Essential advice for anyone facing post-Christmas divorce

If you’ve had a difficult Christmas and you’re considering divorce, there are some important things you should be thinking about and doing. Even if you’re nowhere near ready to apply for divorce, it’s worth taking the following on board:

·         Seek legal advice. You don’t need to be actively filing for divorce to benefit from legal advice. A trained, experienced divorce solicitor can help you to understand your options and get to grips with what the divorce process will entail. Your lawyer will advise on what you need to do, what to expect and how to ensure your rights are upheld.

·         Get all the information you can. One of the best things you can do to prepare for divorce is learn more about how it works. Legal advice from a family lawyer you can trust can be hugely valuable. Don’t be afraid to ask as many questions as you need to. In fact, it could be worth preparing a list in advance to get the very most from your appointment.

·         Get your documents in order. If you do decide that divorce is the best way forward, you can potentially make it quicker and cheaper by getting your papers in order. Ask your divorce solicitor what you’ll need, so you can dig out the relevant documents.

·         Talk to your spouse. If you feel comfortable doing so and the relationship hasn’t broken down completely, sit down and have an honest, frank chat with your ex. This is a valuable opportunity to discuss what will happen next, share your feelings and come to an agreement about the best way to arrange things for your family post-divorce. Agreeing with your ex on key points can save a lot of time, money and stress during the divorce process.

·         Consider counselling or mediation. Divorce courts like to see that you and your partner have tried everything you can to save the relationship. If you haven’t already, consider relationship counselling. If it’s definitely over and feelings are running high, try mediation with a trained third party to pave the way for a divorce. It could lower tension, reduce animosity and help you both to make sensible decisions.

If you’re facing relationship breakdown, get in touch with the friendly, experienced team at Tracey Miller Family Law. Our Wirral divorce lawyers will provide all the information and advice you need to make informed decisions in the best interests of your family.