Last updated on December 29th, 2017 at 02:47 pm
It is a sad fact that, as the festive season fades and reality sets in, more couples seek advice on divorce and separation in January than most other times of the year.
We’ve all seen the Christmas advertisements showing happy families spending relaxed and contented time with family and friends around the Christmas tree and dinner table, but that isn’t an experience shared by everyone. Often, the pressure to have fun, socialise, entertain and be generous can be impossible to live up to, and unrealistically high expectations on everyone’s part can cause stress and anxiety.
Relationship cracks often show at Christmas
Couples often find themselves in each other’s company more over the Christmas period than at any other time – which can mean more time to reflect on relationships and more time to argue. For a couple already on the brink of breaking up, this can be a time when they realise that they just don’t get on any more and their relationship must come to an end.
The cost of Christmas is high and, along with the need to ensure that children are kept happy with the latest gadgets, for example, purse strings are stretched further than usual and financial arguments often peak. The in-laws and other guests often don’t help either; full of peace and joy they may be, but the onslaught of extended family can make emotions run high. The bubble bursts and couples who’ve managed to grit their teeth and ‘get on’ over Christmas, often for the sake of the children, simply find that they can’t cope with it any longer.
Liquid Christmas spirit
With all of this tension, alcohol can be an issue too. ‘Liquid” Christmas spirit can cause things to get out of hand, triggering a whole host of feelings and issues and can, unfortunately, bring out the worst in some people and lead to domestic violence, with most police forces and support agencies on high alert over the festive season.
Christmas can highlight the difference between people’s aspirations for a happy family life and the reality. Reflecting upon the last year; realising that they simply can’t cope with another year of the same and looking for positive change, couples often set ‘new year – new me’ resolutions and decide to pursue a divorce.
Graysons experts can help
Bradie Pell, solicitor and head of family law, Sheffield office
Nicola Cancellara, family law solicitor, Chesterfield office
If you, or someone you know, are looking for a new start, or just someone to listen to your worries, Graysons can help. Our family law experts have years of experience dealing with family breakup and the resulting issues, and can give you the expert help you need to divorce or separate in a way which fits your own particular needs. We have members of specialist Law Society and Resolution panels in our team, which is also recommended in the Legal 500, so you can be sure you are getting the best advice possible.
We can offer a range payment options, including fixed fee divorce, pay as you go and, in certain circumstances, a special credit facility to meet legal expenses.
We are here to help. Contact us now.
