It is a truth universally acknowledged that after the Christmas period, solicitors are inundated with new enquiries as to divorce.
Lindsey Canning, head of family law at Wake Smith Solicitors talks about when the initial thoughts about separation really start.
In actual fact, it’s prior to Christmas where I have come across a trend of husbands or wives taking advice from me as to what would likely be the outcome should the relationship finally breakdown over the Christmas period - when solicitors offices are shut.
They want to know:
- What is the truth about the divorce process?
- How are the assets likely to be distributed?
- How much does it cost and what can they do if the other party refuses to engaged in the whole process of separating?
I have always found this to be a sensible and measured approach to take, particularly where people are more minded to surf the internet or trust hearsay rather get expert professional advice.
In particular, the period we are approaching between Christmas and New Year is often a reflective period of time.
After the hiatus of Christmas, and before the expected joviality of New Year, it is an opportunity to consider your motivation behind a decision to separate, what you hope to achieve and how you envisage your new life to be.
I advise clients on the divorce process, likely to alter on April 6, 2022 to “no fault divorce” and what should be the outcome of arrangements for the children and redistribution of the material assets to provide for the individuals and children needs.
Needless to say, the children should be put first, but the parents must learn to adapt to the new arrangements, knowing that there will be a shift in their relationship, from being a couple to operating a different dynamic of co-parenting their children. This is often not easy but, if mastered, will be a fulfilling experience for many years, especially for the children.
Christmas, even during a normal year is stressful and emotionally charged. Take some time during this period to think about what how the next year will be and what the next Christmas will bring.
For further information on divorce proceedings and to book your free 30-minute consultation with the Family Law team call Lindsey Canning at Wake Smith Solicitors on 0114 266 6660.
