Navigating Separation During the Holidays: Practical Tips and Support

Where a relationship is already under pressure, the winter holidays can result in tensions coming to a head. If you have recently decided that you would like to separate, or contemplating separating, you might want to consider the following:

1. The holidays can be a very stressful time of year. Are you sure that your relationship is over, or do you want to attempt relationship counselling?
2. Take legal advice – It may be that you and your partner are able to reach an agreement in relation to matters arising a result of your separation, but you should still take legal advice and have a solicitor prepare a Separation Agreement for you before any assets change hands or are sold. Separation is a highly personal experience, and making sure that you have the right lawyer for you is very important, so don’t be afraid to speak to a few family lawyers!
3. One of the first things that a solicitor will ask you is what date did you separate on, and what assets did you and your partner have at that date. You should have a think about this before you have a first meeting, and make a list, to make the most of that meeting.
4. Life after separation / divorce. You should think about what is important to you – what are you prepared to compromise on, and what are you not.
5. Lastly, but most importantly, the children. You should both do your best to put your children’s needs and feelings first. You could consider attending a Parenting Apart session – locally, Family Journeys run this insightful session which is aimed at finding out you, your ex-partner, and children can move forwards positively.

If at any time you feel that you need to speak to a solicitor urgently, and are not sure what to do, do not hesitate to contact the Family Law Team at Gilson Gray.

Find out more about our Family Law services here.