3 minute read
SOLICITORS ADVICE
SOLICITOR ADVICE
An emotional impact: why Christmas (and 2021) need not be hard following a separation
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Christmas 2020 is certain to be different for many families, especially for newly-single parents who have divorced or separated. Family lawyer Rita Gupta looks at how separated co-parents facing their first Christmas apart will have new challenges to face - and overcome.
Across the UK, newly-separated parents will be making Christmas child arrangements for the first time. The five-day festive relaxation of the Tier rules allows three households to meet and stay together between 23 and 27 December. *
SOLICITOR ADVICE
Three main concerns
Most newly-single parents have three main concerns: 1. Who gets the children on
Christmas Day? 2. How much can I afford to spend? 3. Will I see the kids open their presents? It’s important to work out what you feel about these, as well as what you are going to do in practical terms.
Christmas Day arrangements
As the resident parent, you’ll want your children to spend Christmas at home with you. As the absent parent, you’ll want them to spend time with you at your home. Many parents opt for the ‘this year, next year’ approach, alternating who has the children on the day itself. Some parents choose to share the day, half each, but this does mean you’ll see your ex-partner on Christmas Day…
Your Christmas budget
Many separated parents worry about not earning the same as their ex, and having less to spend at Christmas. Buying a joint present is both budget-friendly AND proof positive of co-parenting. Set a budget for stocking gifts and treats too.
Opening presents
If you’re giving a joint present this year, share in the moment via a prearranged video call. Grandparents and extended family can join in too, so everyone can open presents during the same call.
Christmas child arrangement letters
Once you’ve agreed what will happen between you, get it down in writing. A professional letter from a family lawyer can help nail down the details so you both can agree, and move towards the holidays with confidence.
Not just for Christmas
Child arrangement letters are a great solution for any holiday period, helping smooth negotiations and give clarity. For foreign holidays, you do need to obtain permission to take the children out of the country. This permission should be set down in writing too.
Time for you too
Your first separated Christmas is not all about the children, so take time to enjoy the things you love about the season. Link up with friends for a Zoom party, volunteer to help a charity, or just relax. Rita Gupta is co-founder of LGFL Ltd, a boutique family law firm near Reading Berkshire. She offers Stay Connected readers a 1-hour initial online consultation, including 30 minutes free, to discuss your situation. (For qualifying clients, T&Cs apply).
Rita Gupta
Director LGFL Ltd
www.lgfamilylawyers.co.uk
01189 735521
* at time of writing
Legal 500 UK 2021
Nationwide family law services with the personal touch
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Areas of Expertise:
• Divorce and Financial Settlements • Children and Child Arrangements
• School Fees Orders • Separation Issues • Domestic Abuse • Co-habitee Agreements & Disputes • Pre-nup Agreements • Mediation • Collaborative Law • Surrogacy
MODERN FAMILY LAWYERS
Click above to watch the video from Guy Stout, owner of Templar Financial Associates
