OK, so divorce lawyers are probably the last people you want to hear from on Valentine’s Day. But bear with us. Whether you’re just about to start out your married life, wondering whether your soon-to-be ex is really that bad or feeling pangs of regret about your recent divorce, we take a look at your options and give you some tips to help you through the most romantic day of the year.
Prevention is better than cure
Doctors across the country recite this to us to try and get us to eat more healthily, but it also rings true for marriages. As divorce lawyers, we see relationships which have either broken down or are on the verge of breaking down, on a daily basis.
While some relationships seem to be doomed to failure almost from the very start, many couples may be able to avoid the difficult divorce process by taking part in pre-marriage counselling, in order to sort out any issues before they rear their head further down the line.
It’s surprising, for example, how many couples get married without talking about finances and their financial goals (such as do they want to save and buy a home or would they rather live for the moment and spend, spend, spend).
Ironing out these issues right at the very beginning can save a heap of unnecessary heartache.
Face up to any problems
All marriages go through rough patches.
Communication is the key to a happy marriage. If you don’t like the fact that he bought you socks for Valentine’s day, don’t keep it in and build up resentment – just tell him!
Honesty (with sensitivity, of course) really is the best policy.
Divorce should be the last option
Sometimes, divorce is the only (and best) way forward. But it shouldn’t necessarily be viewed as the first or even second option.
Whilst it is possible to remarry someone you have divorced, it might be better to work through the issues if you can and save a whole lot of time, money and heartache.
Valentine’s Day is just another day
If you’re single on Valentine’s Day, it can feel like you’re the only one who doesn’t have someone to cuddle up to.
In reality, it’s just a day designed to squeeze money out of couples who feel pressured into showing how much they love each other on one particular, often dreary, day in February.
The good news is that these days, anti-Valentine’s Day events take place across London and beyond. So, don’t sit in on your own just because you’re told by very clever marketers that you’re supposed to be being romantic. Go out and do something fun.
If you’re having doubts about whether you want to divorce or are regretting starting the divorce process at all, get in touch to talk to one of our experienced family lawyers.