Conflict between separated parents often casts a shadow over this special time of year. In this blog, our family law team at MJP Law shares valuable tips to help separated parents navigate the lead-up to Christmas.
Tip 1: Plan ahead and be flexible
Now is the time to begin thinking about your proposed Christmas arrangements. Planning in advance gives the other parent ample time to consider and respond to your suggestions, improving the likelihood of reaching a mutual agreement.
Effective communication is key when coordinating Christmas plans with the other parent. In-person discussions are often more productive, when possible, but if you’re communicating in writing, be mindful of how your emails or messages may be interpreted. Flexibility is also crucial, as it can help avoid unnecessary conflict.
Every family is unique, and while it’s generally in your child’s best interests to spend time with both parents during the holiday season, challenges often arise when working out the details. There is no one-size-fits-all approach, as what works for one family may not work for another.
In some cases, families are able to celebrate Christmas together, but this is more the exception than the rule. Some families prefer an arrangement where the children spend time with both parents on Christmas Day, while others may choose to divide the holiday, with one parent having Christmas Day and the other parent having Boxing Day.
Older children often have their own preferences about where they want to spend their time. If appropriate, involve them in the discussions and consider their wishes and feelings.
Now it is time to consider your options regarding child arrangements if you are unable to come to an agreement.
Considering your options at Christmas
If you’re unable to reach an agreement initially, keep making the effort. If necessary, take a step back and reflect on what would be best for your children in the situation. However, if unsuccessful, now is the time to explore your options for child arrangements if an agreement can’t be reached.
What steps can I take if the other parent refuses to agree on a Christmas schedule?
If the other parent is unwilling to agree on a Christmas schedule, the first step should be to try to resolve the issue amicably through open, constructive discussions. Mediation can also be helpful, as it provides a neutral third party to facilitate the conversation.
If an agreement cannot be reached through direct discussions or mediation, you may need to apply to the court for a child arrangements order. This legal order will ensure both parents are bound by a decision regarding where the child will spend Christmas.
Will I require a court order if we cannot agree on child arrangements at Christmas?
While a court order is not required for Christmas arrangements, it may become necessary if you are unable to reach an agreement with the other parent. If the situation is urgent and no resolution is possible, seeking a child arrangements order from the court could be the only viable solution to formalise the holiday schedule.
*This sponsored blog post is written by MJP Law.
