News | Christmas - not always 'happy' for families
Sad though it is, the Christmas holiday period isn’t festive and full of good cheer for all couples, and is often the final straw for those whose relationships are already heading for the rocks. It is well known that January is in fact the busiest time of year for all divorce lawyers, as couples who have managed to grit their teeth and ‘get on’ - particularly for the sake of the children - over Christmas just can’t cope with it any longer. Many couples spend more time together during the Christmas holiday period than at any other time of the year, and with the lack of normal distractions outside the family, emotions often run high. The time together often simply makes them realise that they do not like each other anymore.
Also, although statistically, reports of domestic violence reduce over Christmas (possibly because women are trying to hold things together during holiday), the incidents themselves are not reduced to the same degree, and women still suffer, undoubtedly exacerbated by the increase of alcohol consumption during the period.
For those reflecting upon the last year who can see no light at the end of the tunnel, new year resolutions of a ‘new year, new life, new me’ are often embarked upon as things get back to normal and children go back to school in January. Many couples, deciding they have simply had enough feel it is time to think about themselves and their children and pursue a divorce. Christmas often highlights the difference between people’s aspirations for a happy family life and the reality. The pressure and responsibility of caring for children without support comes into focus and the need for positive change often becomes clear.
The current economic situation puts further pressure on relationships of course, and adds to the turmoil, especially at Christmas, when the purse strings are stretched even further. Financial worries and arguments are high on the list of issues cited by separating couples. In fact it has been estimated that they have contributed to the problems of approximately 2 million divorcing couples this year.
Sheffield solicitors, Watson Esam has specialist family and children law departments with many years’ experience of helping couples who encounter issues relating to marriage, partnership or children, especially at this time of year, and they will be happy to arrange a confidential meeting to discuss your options.
If you need any advice or assistance, please contact us on 0114 321 1888 or email divorce-enquiries@graysons.co.uk
16 December 2010
