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When a couple decides to proceed with a divorce is an important part of the process. Sometimes people choose to avoid certain times of the year to benefit the whole family. Furthermore, it can take people a while to prepare for the divorce process. Due to a number of circumstances, many couples decide to start their divorce process once the new year rolls around.
Calfas Law Group, PLLC can help explain why New Year divorces are a common phenomenon while also providing suggestions for preparing for divorce.
Why the New Year?
There are many reasons why individuals may choose to start their divorce process around the New Year. We will take an opportunity to explain those reasons below.
New Start
For many people, the New Year represents an opportunity to change their lives. Sometimes this change means altering the family structure or unit. If someone is unhappy in their marriage, they will likely see divorce as an opportunity for a positive difference and a chance for something new in life. Maybe ending an unhappy marriage is their New Year’s resolution.
Happy Holidays
The New Year represents the end of a long holiday season where family time is important. When couples do have children, they will typically keep in mind how the news of separation will impact them. If you do divorce over the holidays, that could potentially change your child’s outlook of the season for the worse. By waiting until after the New Year, your children will not associate the end of your marriage with the phrase “Happy Holidays.”
Strategy
The holidays also present a lot of stress for married couples, meaning that adding a divorce into the mix could cause further strife. Furthermore, finances are also tighter for couples around this time, making attorney costs more of a burden as well. These are strategic reasons that couples may decide to wait until the New Year for their divorce.
How to Prepare
When preparing for a divorce, there are many components to consider. However, there are simple steps to take to improve the process overall.
Retain an Attorney
Perhaps one of the most important steps in this process is to retain an experienced divorce attorney that can guide you through any trouble you might encounter. Even if you think that your divorce won’t be contentious, an attorney can still provide advice and answer any questions you may have. For example, there are multiple ways you can approach divorces, such as mediation and litigation. An attorney can help you decide which approach will work best for you.
Talk With Your Spouse
Before filing, have a serious conversation with your spouse. If at all possible, confront them with compassion and understanding, as this news could shock them. Let them know your own reasoning for ending the marriage, but avoid placing full blame on their shoulders. Calfas Law Group, PLLC understands that conversing in this way is not always possible, so do what is safest for you and your family.
Take Care of Finances
Before going into the divorce process:
Remember to take stock of your finances.
Create your own separate bank accounts in your name.
Take into consideration any extra expenses you may encounter during this time, such as attorney fees. You may also find yourself having to find child care options for your children, which is another additional expense.
Keep the Kids in Mind
Always put your children first when you are going through a divorce. This is a change that they have no control over, so it is important to treat them gently during this time. Be honest and upfront about what is happening, as keeping secrets can do more harm than good in the long run.
Calfas Law Group, PLLC Can Help
If you are considering a divorce in the new year, know that you are not alone. This is a common time for many couples to go through separation. However, you should not try to navigate this process without the assistance of an experienced attorney. Calfas Law Group, PLLC can help advise you through this time.
Schedule a consultation with us (210) 405-8315 to discuss your divorce case.