Don’t Let a Relationship Breakdown Affect Your Christmas
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Christmas is a wonderful time of year for most people, but it can also be very challenging for others.
Not everyone has a family, and many are going through trying times of grief at this time of year. Grief due to the loss of a loved one, or because of an irrevocable relationship breakdown.
When difficulties happen so close to Christmas, it can be even more upsetting and stressful than normal, as there are a lot of things to sort out over the holidays…
Who will have the children on Christmas Eve, Christmas morning, and for Christmas dinner? Who will have to forfeit time with their children against their will? Furthermore, what will the situation be in the new year? Will the Christmas period prove to be a time of solace, or will it create even more problems that will have to be dealt with in the future?
If you are suffering from a relationship breakdown this Christmas, know that you are not alone. And whilst that doesn’t make it any easier to comprehend, knowing your legal rights and having someone to fight your corner can make the entire process easier to navigate.
There are two key things that may need your attention – firstly, your rights in terms of access to the children, and secondly, handling any formal dissolution of marriage.
We are not suggesting that you pursue any legal action at this time of year, unless the welfare of your children is in jeopardy. However, it might make you feel more at ease over Christmas if we have a quick talk with you beforehand so that you have a clearer picture of the situation.
Of course, in your situation your problems may just be a bump in the road, and Christmas might be just the tonic you need to get family life back on track. Give yourself the time this Christmas to truly understand where your heart is. Sometimes, a step back from life, and giving yourself some time to relax and reflect, can give you the clarity of mind that you need.
If your relationship has broken down beyond repair and you’re struggling to get access to your children, you do have options…
Initially, you should try to contact your ex-partner directly. If communication has broken down completely, write them a letter requesting that they re-instate access. Send this recorded and keep your proof of postage. Also keep a copy of the letter for your records. The letter should detail your request, be dated, and signed.
With Christmas fast approaching hopefully this will resolve your problem. If it doesn’t, you may have to pursue legal action in the new year, this blog post will detail more of your options in this instance – Denied access to your children? Here’s what you can do.
If you are married and don’t have children, or if the relationship breakdown has been on good terms, we can speak to you about your requirements for dissolution of marriage whenever is convenient for you.
No matter your situation this Christmas, should you require any legal advice at all, we’ll be here for you. You can call the office as always, on 01282 433 241.
We wish you a Happy Christmas, and we hope that whatever the festive season brings you, it comes with times of joy and happiness.
