In the latest of our series of legal advice columns, Sarah Birdsey from Timperley-based Nicholls Solicitors takes a look at prenuptial agreements.
Divorce or separation comes with big changes. It can feel like an emotional rollercoaster whether the decision is mutual or one-sided.
During this challenging time, our family team can support you with every step of the legal journey and it is important that you prioritise your emotional well-being.
There are some strategies to support your mental health during this time.
1. Seek Professional Help
Talking to a therapist or counsellor can be incredibly helpful. Divorce is a significant life transition, and having professional guidance can ease the journey and support you in feeling less alone.
2. Develop a Support System
Surround yourself with friends, family, trusted work colleagues and neighbours who can offer space, time, understanding and encouragement. Online communities and divorce support groups can be helpful, such as Gingerbread, Families Need Fathers and Andy’s Man Club meet regularly to support people who are experiencing change and/or difficult emotions.
3. Prioritise Self-Care
During divorce, it’s easy to neglect self-care, especially when you’re caught up in legal processes, parenting responsibilities, or the emotional fallout. Exercise, nutrition, sleep, and relaxation practices like meditation or yoga can significantly boost your mood.
4. Set Boundaries
Setting healthy boundaries with your ex-partner will be important for your mental health. We can help you establish boundaries by limiting communication to essential matters and, if necessary, setting up formal no-contact orders or restraining orders if necessary.
Solo-Parenting
Becoming a single parent after divorce or separation can be challenging when learning how to adapt. Our legal team are there to help you navigate how to agree on child arrangements and if course proceedings are required then we can assist with those. Our team are trained with Resolution so that our approach is focused on an amicable and non-contentious resolution where possible.
A big change you might experience is child-free weekends. You may find yourself feeling lonely without your children when they are spending the weekend with their other parent.
We recommend reaching out to family and friends or join local communities that can help to offer you support and advice, such as Social Circle in Altrincham, FreshWalks and ParkRun.
In addition to emotional support, having a solicitor by your side during a divorce will ensure that you are provided essential legal guidance. We will guide you through the process and ensure that that clear boundaries are established, helping to reduce stress and conflict.
By managing the legal complexities on your behalf, we allow you to focus on healing and moving forward. Remember, seeking professional support, both legal and emotional, can make a world of difference as you navigate this challenging transition.
If you need advice or legal assistance during a separation or divorce, contact our Family Law Team on 0161 980 6099, chat us online or email sarah.birdsey@nichollssolicitors.com or rebecca.ranson@nichollssolicitors.com
