divorce during the holidays

Helpful Tips for Dealing with a Divorce During the Holidays

If you’re in the midst of a divorce just as the holiday season starts, you’re not alone. The holiday season is actually a fairly common time for couples to decide to part ways. In some cases, it’s a split that has been coming for a long time and one party just can’t go through another Christmas pretending everything’s okay. In other cases, the joy of the holiday season shows one spouse the happiness they are missing in everyday life.

No matter what has led to your divorce, this Christmas season will undoubtedly be hard on you. At the very least, don’t go through this alone. The team at Wilkins, Bankester, Biles & Wynne is here to provide the strong legal advice and support you need during this difficult time. Give us a call at 251-928-1915 to set up a time to talk to a divorce attorney.

Get Your Legal Needs Squared Away

First, make sure you are protecting yourself legally. If your ex already has a lawyer and you don’t, waiting until the holiday season is over could put you behind. Even if you decide to take things slow while getting through Christmas and the New Year, you at least want to have someone you can call if your ex-partner tries to pull something. No matter what time of year it is, we’re here to listen to your needs and get started on your case.

Consider Putting a Pause on Proceedings Until the Holidays Are Over

Once you have the must-have discussions of the season—who will have the kids and when, if you’ll give the kids gifts together or separately, and so on—think about how you want to handle the legal side of your divorce.

Some people take a little break from the legal process, particularly if it’s been a mental drag on them for months. This option is easier if your divorce is relatively low-stress and non-adversarial, as your ex is less likely to try to sneak something past you. But if your divorce is highly adversarial or you’ve already caught your partner trying to abuse the process for their benefit, you probably just want to plow ahead and keep going at full speed during the holidays.

Talk to Loved Ones to Figure Out Your Support Network

Your mental health may hinge on having loved ones you can rely on when things get tough. Know whom you can count on and for what. You may have some friends that are always just a phone call away, and those who are always free for a cup of coffee if you need to get out of the house while your kids are with your ex. You may have a friend who has also been through divorce and is there to give useful advice. Have a plan ahead of time so you can take action when you’re in distress.

Give the Best Gifts Ever—to Yourself

You’ve spent a number of Christmases pouring your heart and soul into gifts for your ex. Even if you still have to buy them gifts “from the kids,” you don’t have to give them anything from you. Instead, take this time to give yourself a well-deserved gift. What’s something you always wanted during your marriage but never were able to buy? Treat yourself and engage in self-care this holiday season.

Think About the Memories You Will Want to Look Back On

Right now, it may be hard to see ahead to a time when your life isn’t in upheaval. But this too shall pass, and when it does, you will look back at this first Christmas you had as a single person.

What do you hope your children remember from that time? How do you want them to see you? Knowing that much happier times are ahead, try to create the holiday season that you and your children need.

Choose Wilkins, Bankester, Biles & Wynne for Your Divorce Case

With the right legal team by your side, divorce can be less stressful and painful. Find out how we can help and what we offer. Set up a consultation with us now by reaching out online or calling our Fairhope office at 251-928-1915.

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