The start of a new year often brings a moment of reflection. For many people, it’s a time to assess where they are in life, what’s working, and what needs to change. Relationship and family issues are no exception. January is consistently one of the busiest months for family solicitors — not because anyone wants conflict, but because people finally give themselves permission to seek clarity and take practical steps forward.
If you’re feeling uncertain about your relationship, co‑parenting arrangements, financial security, or the future of your family, here are some important issues to consider as 2026 begins.
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Are your current arrangements working for you?
Whether you’re married, cohabiting, separated, or co‑parenting, now is a good time to ask:
- Are the arrangements fair and sustainable?
- Do they protect your financial and emotional wellbeing?
- Are there ongoing issues that keep resurfacing?
- If you’re separated, are informal agreements still fit for purpose?
You don’t need to be in crisis to seek legal advice. Sometimes reassurance — or identifying simple adjustments — is all you need.
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Relationship changes: Thinking about separation or divorce?
The decision to separate is rarely immediate. Many people spend months, sometimes years, feeling unsure.
If you’re in that position, it’s important to understand:
- How the no‑fault divorce process works
- What steps you can take now to protect your financial position
- What happens to the family home and other assets
- How long the process typically takes
- How to ensure the children’s best interests are prioritised
Clarity reduces fear. Early advice doesn’t commit you to anything — it simply gives you the information you need to move forward in a calm, informed way.
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Reviewing your financial position
January is a natural moment to get your financial documents in order. Consider:
- Are you financially dependent on your partner?
- Do you understand your joint assets and liabilities?
- Do you need advice on maintenance, pensions, or property?
- Have your circumstances changed recently (promotion, inheritance, job loss)?
A brief consultation can help you understand your rights and plan your next steps with confidence.
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Co-parenting and child arrangements
If you’re already separated, ask yourself:
- Are current arrangements meeting your children’s needs?
- Are communication issues making co‑parenting difficult?
- Have the children’s schedules (school, activities, health needs) changed?
- Is a Child Arrangements Order or Parenting Plan needed?
Even small improvements can make a huge difference to stability and family harmony.
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Protecting yourself for the future
Even in positive relationships, it’s sensible to plan ahead. Common issues to consider include:
- Cohabitation agreements – essential if you’re living together unmarried
- Pre‑nuptial agreements – increasingly common and widely respected by the courts
- Post‑nuptial agreements – helpful when finances or circumstances change
- Updating your Will if your relationship has changed
Planning brings peace of mind.
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Don’t navigate this alone
Family issues are deeply personal. They affect not just your finances, but your future, your stability, and your wellbeing. Many clients tell me they wished they’d taken advice sooner — not because the outcome changed, but because the anxiety did.
If something is troubling you, or you simply want clarity for the year ahead, speaking with a solicitor can help you feel more grounded and empowered.
Ready to talk? Here’s your next step
If you’re considering your options in 2026 — whether around separation, finances, child arrangements, or future planning — I’m here to help.
You don’t need to make any big decisions straight away. A confidential, no‑obligation conversation can give you the clarity and direction you need.
Get in touch to arrange an initial consultation and start the new year with confidence and support.
How can we help
Hannah Bridgwood is a Senior Associate in our expert Family Law team. She specialises in cohabitation, the breakdown of marriages and civil partnerships and domestic abuse.
If you have any further questions or want to discuss any aspect of this article, please contact Hannah or another member of the team in Derby, Nottingham or Leicester on 0800 024 1976 or via our online form.
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