This Independence Day, you may be celebrating your freedom from an unhappy marriage, grieving the death of a relationship, or trying to figure out shared custody during the summer holidays. No matter what you’re facing, Family Law San Diego can help.
We hope our blog empowers you to live your best life this 4th of July, and we are always here to guide you through child custody disputes and other issues related to divorce.
Don’t Forget to Celebrate Your Independence
The 4th of July is all about celebrating your freedom. Even if you did not choose your divorce, you are now free to pursue your own happiness.
Don’t try to avoid the emotional fireworks that come from your first holidays after divorce but do remember why the divorce was for the best, surround yourself with supportive friends and family, and try to enjoy the day as much as you can.
Avoid Parenting Time Disputes
Previously, your family may have celebrated Independence Day together with barbeques and fireworks. If you and your co-parent are on good terms, there’s no reason you can’t celebrate the 4th together for your new family’s sake.
Otherwise, make sure to plan ahead to avoid disputes. You can agree to take turns spending the 4th of July with your kids every year, share the special weekend, or even split the holiday in half.
For example, if your ex loves grilling, let them have the kids during the daylight hours, then enjoy taking your children to see fireworks at night.
Whatever you do, don’t let your emotions get the better of you – and try to be fair when dealing with your co-parent. If you have the kids this year, for example, make time for them to talk to their other parent on the phone and send photos of sparklers and red, white, and blue outfits to share the joy.
Remember, you always want to do what’s best for the kids. If they usually go to a fun family reunion over the long weekend, don’t take that away from them. You can celebrate the holiday a second time when they get home or choose a holiday that matters more to you when developing a parenting plan.
If your ex gets to take the kids to their family reunion over the 4th of July weekend every year, for instance, you can request Labor Day or Memorial Day every year.
Always include holidays and long weekends in your child custody agreement, even “minor” holidays like the 4th of July and Halloween.
Do What’s Best for You
Celebrating Independence Day doesn’t have to mean hot dogs and fireworks if you aren’t feeling up to it. You can observe the holiday by taking a bath and watching your favorite movie instead – just don’t isolate yourself if you are feeling lonely!
Find a way to make the holiday special for you, whether that means taking the day off for self-care or creating a new tradition with your friends. Don’t try to avoid the holiday or your feelings, as that will only make matters worse.
Surviving your first round of holidays after a divorce can be difficult whether you have children or not, so trust your gut and do what’s best for you and your family.
What If the 4th of July Triggers a Custody Dispute?
Even with the best parenting plan in place, some families face challenges during the holidays. If your co-parent is being unreasonable, failing to honor your child custody agreement, or suddenly wants to change your parenting plan, do not hesitate to contact an attorney.
Family Law San Diego has more than 200 years of combined legal experience, and we can help you handle any problem that arises. Our lawyers want to empower you and your co-parent to make the right decisions for your family, and we offer comprehensive, collaborative, innovative, and dedicated legal support.
Get in touch today by calling us at (619) 577-4900 or sending us a message online.
