Divorce advice: Expert reveals how to cope with a marriage ending at Christmas

To divorce at Christmas can cause a struggle within the family when trying to keep the peace.

Last year, UK divorces lawyers helped 1.8m couples who were considering splitting up during the holiday season.

A UK expert has given her top advice on how to cope if going through a separation at Christmas

Sara Davison, expert and best-selling author of the book ‘Uncoupling’ has given some tips on what to do next.

Stay close to friends and don’t feel alone

Sara states: “This can be a rollercoaster of emotions and practical challenges so you need to have people around you who care about you and who you can talk to.”

“Remember that you are not alone and there are lots of people who are going through this too and also who can help you to get through this. 

“42 per cent of marriage in the UK end in divorce and this is the most common time of year for it.”

Work out what you want from the divorce

“Have an idea in your head of what you think is fair and how you would like to see it working,” Sara explained 

“This could include arrangements with the children, where you would live and finances.

“If you can talk amicably to your ex then this is always a good idea.”

Choose a lawyer that suits you

Sara revealed: “If it is a friendly amicable split you will want a very different approach from an aggressive severing situation. “Remember that the lawyer you choose will set the tone for your divorce.”

Although people are warned not to rely on them too much: “Don’t spend hours talking to your lawyer about your emotions. 

“Whilst they can be reassuring this is not what you pay them for and can work out to be very expensive therapy.” 

A suitable financial advisor will also help

“Even if your finances are simple then it helps to get clarity on what your lifestyle will look like and any changes you need to make,” she states.

“They can also help you to find ways to improve your situation as remember it doesn’t always have to be as it is now. “

Ultimately, she advises couples to have some personal time to adjust, as well as looking after themselves during the festive period.

Sarah states: “You need to give yourself space to grieve the end of your relationship and also to start planning the next phase of your life.”

Those who feel a divorce could be on the cards at Christmas should avoid doing a number of things that could put a strain on the relationship.