DIVORCE IN THE NEW YEAR January has earned the nickname “Divorce Month” because filings tend to surge after the holidays when people desire a fresh start in the new year. For those facing the end of a marriage, especially this time of year, it can feel emotionally overwhelming and lonely. But this is also a powerful opportunity to pause, ground yourself, and discover a new you. and even professionals. The people you love will be there to listen, encourage you, and provide emotional strength. You can form new relationships by joining classes, gyms, or group therapy with other individuals going through divorce. Counseling and support groups are an effective way to manage, understand, and progress with your feelings in a healthy, safe setting. Your lawyer can help you find resources. Turn Heartbreak Into Healing, Strength, and a Life You Love
Put yourself first. Though you may have been putting off self-care during your relationship, it’s time to turn the spotlight on yourself. Focus on simple, daily habits that promote your health and well- being, like morning walks or meditation. Find things that help you stay positive and grateful, such as motivational podcasts, books, or a special playlist. This is a time to set personal boundaries, limiting interactions with people or behavior that no longer serves you. Perhaps, most importantly, rewire your self-talk so you treat yourself with kindness.
Plan your next chapter. A divorce isn’t just an ending, it’s also a beginning. Visualize what you want your new life to look like and use that as motivation to keep moving forward. Remember, you don’t have to do everything all at once. Create a plan and use small, intentional steps to achieve it. As you knock off tasks on your list, celebrate the wins. Your lawyer can be a crucial guide through the legal process and help you stay on track, especially if you have children and need to create or change parenting plans.
If your new year begins with a divorce, remember that brighter days lie ahead, and this is your chance to start an exciting new chapter. Contact The Manely Firm for support on your journey today.
Lean on trusted friends. Just because you are single does not mean you have to go through this process alone. Build a solid support system of friends, colleagues,
THE ANNUAL REVIEW YOUR FAMILY NEEDS From Custody Conflicts to Peace of Mind
The new year is a perfect time not just to take stock of your goals, but also the legal foundations that protect your family. A comprehensive legal checkup should include reviewing custody agreements, child support, and other family documents, such as alimony agreements or your estate plan. If anything has
changed in your circumstances, like a new job or your children’s schedules, you can address them head-on this month and set your family up for a smooth 2026. Custody Agreements Child custody can be a highly sensitive topic for co-parents, and you and your ex may have different ideas of what childcare should look like. An annual review can help ensure the agreement remains in the children’s best interest and takes into account any significant changes. If one parent’s schedule can’t accommodate the original parenting plan or your children have new needs, it’s time to modify the agreement. Child Support Changes in employment, income, health, or family dynamics can all impact child support agreements. If you or your co-parent has lost a job or received a raise, it may be best to modify the order to ensure there are enough resources to support your child. As your children grow older, their needs and reliance
on both of you may also change. Parenting plan revisions may necessitate adjustments to child support if one parent is assuming additional responsibilities. Relocations or an illness in the family are also reasons to rethink this document. Other Important Documents If your family has experienced significant life events since 2025, you should revisit your estate plan. Make sure your will still reflects your wishes and that your assets and beneficiaries are up to date. You may want to make changes to your Power of Attorney designee or who will carry out your plan when the time comes. The new year is a prime time to review your insurance policies to ensure you and your family are still effectively covered. At The Manely Firm, we can help ensure all these essential documents reflect your current circumstances and, more importantly, support your children. To schedule a consultation or review of your agreements, contact us today.
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