For Texas couples going through a divorce, holidays can be a difficult time. Not only does one have to adjust to spending the holidays alone instead of with one’s spouse, if there are children involved then the spouses have to contend with one another when picking up or dropping off children. This can be just as difficult as not seeing one’s former spouse, as it raises contentious emotions once again. However, making some resolutions early on in the year may help divorcing couples get through the process and through the new year.
In addition to not speaking ill of a former spouse in front of the children, it is also important not to use visitation or child support to punish them. Children need to interact with both of their parents and for that, it is important that they adhere to the visitation schedule set out by the court or agreed upon by the parties. Child support payment goes toward ensuring the well-being of the children and withholding it not only can cause legal problems, but can also affect the children’s rearing.
Hand in hand with that goes the responsibility to be cooperative co-parents. Accommodating reasonable requests to change visitation and cooperating with one another during important milestone events in the children’s life will help the emotional development of children. Kids shouldn’t fear important events because they are afraid of how their parents will behave with one another.
Some marriages terminate before children come into the picture. Regardless of whether there are children involved, couples should update their testamentary documents-their wills, trusts, insurance plans and estate plans by naming a new executor and beneficiaries.
Many couples drag their heels and delay the divorce process. However, this only adds more friction to an otherwise fraught relationship. Once it is inevitable that the end of a marriage is near, it is better to make the decision and begin proceedings. Consulting an experienced divorce attorney can be the first step to starting a new life in the new year.
Source: Huffington Post, “10 essential new year’s resolutions for your divorce,” Diana Shepherd, Dec. 30, 2015