Christmas is just around the corner, and for separated parents who have not yet agreed on child arrangements with their ex-partners, time is of the essence.
Agreeing child contact arrangements with an ex for the festive season and other holidays can be stressful.
However, the following tips from our experienced Family Law Solicitors can help.
- Prioritise your children.
Remember that your children come first, and any decisions you make should be in their best interests.
It can often be difficult to put residual issues from a relationship to one side and emotions can get in the way of productive conversations.
However, prioritising your children’s wellbeing and focusing on the task at hand can help keep discussions on track.
- Be flexible.
Christmas is a busy time of the year when normal schedules go out the window. Social events, work parties and visitors can easily disrupt your regular routine – and that of your partner.
Being understanding of additional commitments and remaining flexible can help you and your partner reach an agreement that works for you both.
- Remember there is help if you need it.
It can be extremely difficult for separated parents to reach agreement over arrangements for their children at Christmas and other holidays.
However, various specialist services exist to help. Mediation is particularly useful in family disputes. An experienced mediator can help ex-partners manage child contact arrangements, including agreeing on holiday plans.
- Write it down.
Once you have reached an agreement with your ex about your children’s arrangements for the holiday season, it can help to write it down.
This ensures there is no confusion over what was agreed, and everyone is aware of what is happening and when.
- Enjoy it.
Christmas is a magical time – particularly for children. They do not want to see their parents argue.
Putting your children first and remembering that you and your co-parent both have their best interests at heart will make the festive season more enjoyable for everyone involved.
Child Lawyers Gloucestershire
Our experienced and compassionate team of family lawyers at Langley Wellington offers specialist and sensitive legal advice on all matters to do with children.
If you and your ex-partner are struggling to agree on child arrangements over Christmas, we can help.
Seeking advice from a family law lawyer is the best way to ensure that disputes can be settled early on or agreements reached in the most amicable way. Our child lawyers will help you understand your legal rights and find a solution that is in the best interests of you and your children.
Regardless of the complexity of your situation, our professional child law solicitors in Cheltenham and Gloucestershire will provide tailored legal advice and solutions in relation to child law matters and any other related legal issues.
To find out more about our Family Law services or to speak with one of our specialist child lawyers, call us on 01242 264998 (Cheltenham) or 01452 521286 (Gloucester). Email lawyers@langleywellington.co.uk or click here to make an online enquiry.
This blog is not intended to be taken as advice or acted upon. If you are seeking legal advice, please get in touch with our team of solicitors.
