San Diego Office

1620 Fifth Avenue, Suite 600
San Diego, CA 92101

Phone: 619.234.6123

Temecula Office
43537 Ridge Park Dr, Suite 100
Temecula, CA 92590
Phone: 951.297.3871

El Centro Office
300 S Imperial Ave, #10
El Centro, CA 92243
Phone: 760.460.4608

The Emotional Reset After the Holidays 

The start of a new year often brings fresh beginnings and a sense of renewal. For many, it’s a time to set personal goals, prioritize well-being, and address issues that may have been put on hold. The emotional weight of unresolved marital problems can feel even heavier during the holiday season. Once the celebrations are over, you might evaluate the state of your relationship and consider whether it’s time to make a significant change. January becomes a moment for reflection and action, with many choosing to take the first steps toward ending their marriage.

The Impact of the Holidays on Relationships 

The holiday season, filled with gatherings, traditions, and family expectations, can intensify marital tensions. Financial strain from gift-giving, travel, and hosting can magnify underlying conflicts. Additionally, the pressure to create a “perfect” holiday can lead to frustration or disappointment when reality falls short. If your relationship is already under stress, the holidays highlight those issues, making starting the year with a clean slate more appealing. For some, the end of the festive period signals the right time to move forward with decisions they’ve been delaying.

Timing and Practical Considerations 

Many people wait until January to begin divorce proceedings for practical reasons. The holiday season can be challenging for life-altering decisions, especially when children are involved. You should maintain stability during the festivities and avoid disrupting family traditions. Once January arrives, the quieter post-holiday period allows one to address these significant changes with focus and clarity. Additionally, starting the divorce process at the beginning of the year can make financial and legal planning more straightforward, aligning with the fresh start of a new calendar year.

Managing Child Custody and Parenting Time 

If you’re a parent, child custody arrangements might be at the forefront of your concerns during this time. The holidays often bring unique challenges in coordinating parenting schedules, especially if disputes arise. January can be a chance to reassess custody agreements and create plans that better suit your family’s evolving needs. It’s essential to approach these changes thoughtfully, prioritizing your children’s emotional and physical well-being. Seeking legal guidance can help you understand your options and ensure your agreements are fair and compliant with the law.

Supporting Your Family Through Change 

Deciding to end a marriage is a deeply personal and often emotional process. It’s important to remember that you’re not alone, and resources are available to support you through this transition. Whether it’s addressing custody modifications, understanding your legal rights, or managing the logistics of a divorce, having a reliable team on your side can ease the burden. At JWB Family Law, you’ll find experienced professionals ready to help you focus on creating solutions that reduce stress and foster stability for you and your family. Call (619) 777-5843 to get the guidance you need to move forward.

Let’s work together

Schedule a free initial appointment with our experienced family law attorneys