Breaking Family Matters Issues To Family During Holidays
The holidays are a time to spend with family, friends, and loved ones—but what happens when conversations about legal proceedings enter the mix? Although it is uncomfortable to bring up this topic at the dinner table, you should remember that how you handle these family matters discussions is ultimately your decision.
Managing Your Divorce During the Holiday Season
Discussing a divorce with your extended family can be awkward. Still, you should remember that your family and friends love and support you. They want to know what is going on in your life, so do not be afraid to open up about the situation. The last thing you want is for them to find out from someone else or by accident.
In some cases, it’s best to concentrate on the positive changes in your life—that is, spending more time with your kids or having more financial freedom. Discussing your divorce and the impact it may have on certain financial, emotional, or parenting issues can get you the help you need from your loved ones, so it’s important not to shy away from the more difficult stuff in every case.
No matter what approach to divorce you choose, don’t let yourself forget that how you discuss the situation will ultimately be up to what best serves both you and your family. You can ease the transition and make your visit more enjoyable by being honest about what’s going on, but also careful with how you phrase things.
Keep Discussions Civil
It can be awkward to have a conversation about divorce or custody issues at family holiday gatherings, especially when you and your spouse attend together. While you may be discussing contentious issues, it is important to keep the tone of your conversations civil. Remember that your children could be hearing what you say about each other and try not to engage in negative talk while they are around.
It’s possible to avoid the topic of divorce altogether, or you can redirect a conversation if it does come up.Remember, you are not obligated to tell others about your personal life during such a difficult time. It is important that you take care of yourself first.
Protect Your Children
If you have children, think about how they may react to your divorce and consider the best way to handle these issues with them. Keep the lines of communication with your ex-spouse open, so that you can have a plan in place for how to discuss difficult topics—such as money or child care—when kids are nearby.
If you and your spouse so desire, you can ask family members not to discuss these matters with you around your children. Alternatively, you could simply inform them that discussing such topics in front of the kids is inappropriate (and then hope they get the hint).
Addressing Other Family Law Matters
Other family law issues—such as child support or custody—can arise during the holidays. Again, don’t feel pressured. You do not owe anyone an explanation for these private issues.
If discussing these family problems becomes stressful or overwhelming, you can always redirect to a more comfortable topic, or excuse yourself from the situation altogether for a breather. The holidays should be a time for joy and relaxation, not anxiety over how to meet the expectations of others.
Family Comes First During Family Matters
At Thompson Law, our team of lawyers are here to help you settle the toughest agreements for your family, no matter what time of the year. If you have questions about divorce, custody, or other family law matters and don’t know where to turn for help—we’re here for you.