Thinking About Divorce UK in the New Year? What You Need to Know Before You Start

January is traditionally one of the busiest times of year for divorce enquiries in the UK. After the emotional and practical pressures of Christmas, many people find themselves reassessing their relationships and considering whether divorce is the right next step.

If you are thinking about divorce UK, taking time to understand the process and your options can help you approach the New Year with clarity and confidence. This guide explains what you should consider before beginning a divorce and how to protect yourself emotionally, legally, and financially.

Why January Is a Turning Point for Many Couples

The festive period can place significant strain on already fragile relationships. Time spent together, financial pressure, and unresolved issues often come to the surface during Christmas.

In January, many people:

• Seek clarity and a fresh start

• Decide not to continue in an unhappy marriage

• Begin researching their legal options privately

• Want to act calmly rather than emotionally

Taking time to understand your position before acting can make a significant difference to the outcome.

Do You Need to Rush Into Divorce?

While January may feel like the right time to make a decision, there is rarely a need to rush into divorce proceedings immediately.

Divorce is a legal process with long-term consequences, particularly where children, property, pensions, or business interests are involved. Taking early legal advice allows you to understand:

• Your rights and responsibilities

• The likely process and timescales

• How finances may be dealt with

• Whether alternative dispute resolution is appropriate

In many cases, careful preparation leads to a smoother and less stressful divorce.

The Divorce Process in England and Wales

Divorce in England and Wales follows a no-fault system, meaning you do not need to assign blame for the breakdown of the marriage.

In broad terms, the process involves:

• Submitting a divorce application

• A waiting period before the Conditional Order

• Applying for the Final Order to legally end the marriage

It is important to understand that divorce alone does not resolve financial matters or child arrangements. These issues must be dealt with separately.

Children: Putting Stability First

If you have children, their wellbeing should be at the centre of all decisions. January often highlights practical issues such as school routines, contact arrangements, and communication between parents.

Before starting divorce proceedings, consider:

• How arrangements will work day-to-day

• Whether existing informal arrangements are sustainable

• How to minimise conflict and disruption

• Whether mediation could help resolve disagreements

The court’s primary concern is always the best interests of the child, and cooperative planning can reduce the likelihood of disputes later.

Financial Considerations You Should Think About Early

Financial issues are often the most complex part of a divorce. Before starting proceedings, it is sensible to:

• Gather information about assets, debts, and income

• Consider future housing needs

• Think about pensions and long-term financial security

• Understand the importance of achieving a legally binding financial settlement

Without a formal financial order, financial claims can remain open long after the divorce is finalised.

Is Mediation or Negotiation an Option?

Not every divorce needs to be contentious. In many cases, mediation or solicitor-led negotiation can help couples reach agreements without court involvement.

Alternative dispute resolution can:

• Reduce conflict

• Save time and costs

• Allow more flexible solutions

• Help preserve a working co-parenting relationship

Even if mediation is not suitable, understanding all available options is important before taking formal steps.

When Should You Seek Legal Advice?

It is advisable to seek legal advice as soon as you are considering divorce, particularly if:

• There are children involved

• There are significant assets or debts

• Communication has broken down

• You are concerned about future financial claims

Early advice does not commit you to starting proceedings, but it does allow you to make informed decisions and avoid common pitfalls.

How Evalen Law Solicitors Can Help

At Evalen Law Solicitors, we understand that deciding to divorce is never easy. Our role is to provide clear, practical guidance so you can approach the New Year with confidence and clarity.

We advise clients on:

• The divorce process

• Financial settlements and clean break orders

• Child arrangements and parenting disputes

• Mediation and alternative resolution options

If you are thinking about divorce in the New Year and would like to understand your options, our family law team is here to help.