New Year, New You: Deciding If Divorce or Custody Modifications Are Right for You
As the new year begins, many people reflect on their lives and consider making changes to align with their goals and values. For some, this reflection might involve evaluating their marriage or existing custody arrangements. At Wilson Kester, we understand that these decisions are deeply personal and often challenging. Here’s what to consider when deciding if a divorce or custody modification is the right step for you in the new year.
Is Divorce the Right Choice for You?
Assess Your Relationship:
- Are you and your spouse growing together or apart?
- Do you feel supported and valued in your marriage?
- Have you attempted to resolve conflicts through communication or counseling?
- Have you experienced physical, emotional or financial abuse in your marriage?
- Do you feel unsafe or threatened in your own home?
- Has your spouses’ behavior caused you to change your daily routine out of fear?
- Have you found yourself hiding things from your spouse to avoid conflict?
- Are you free to express who you really are in your marriage?
If you find that your relationship is no longer healthy or fulfilling despite your efforts, divorce might be a necessary step toward building the life you envision.
- Consider Your Emotional Well-Being: Prolonged unhappiness or feelings of being stuck can take a toll on your mental health. How would you feel if in the new year you took the opportunity to prioritize your well-being and take steps toward a fresh start?
- Understand the Legal Process: Navigating the divorce process and obtaining a divorce will involve numerous procedural, legal and strategic decisions with lasting consequences. Speaking with an experienced attorney can help you understand what to expect and how to protect your interests. You can learn more about the process here.
Should You Modify Your Custody Arrangement?
Evaluate Your Current Arrangement:
- Is the current custody arrangement working optimally for your child?
- Have there been significant changes in your or your co-parent’s circumstances, such as relocation, job changes, changes in the home environment, remarriage or other concerns?
Modifications may be appropriate to ensure your children’s best interests are protected. Learn more about Custody Modification here.
- Recognize Your Child’s Needs: As children grow, their needs and schedules evolve. A custody plan that worked when they were younger may have become outgrown or require adjustments to accommodate school, extracurricular activities, or other factors.
- Seek Court Approval: Any changes to a custody agreement must be approved by the court. We work exclusively in the area of family law. Our experienced family law attorneys are effective and experienced in analyzing, preparing and presenting your case to maximize the odds of realizing your case goals.
How Wilson Kester Can Help
Navigating divorce or custody modifications can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Wilson Kester, our compassionate and knowledgeable attorneys are here to guide you through the process and to strongly advocate for you and/or your children. Whether you’re considering divorce or need to revisit custody arrangements, we provide personalized support tailored to your unique situation.
Start the Year with Confidence
The new year is an opportunity to make choices that reflect your values and priorities. If you’re contemplating divorce or custody modifications, contact Wilson Kester today. Let us help you take the first steps toward a brighter and better future.
