The month of January, especially the first Monday of the New Year, is a very busy time for divorce lawyers. Known as Divorce Day in some legal circles, the first Monday often experiences a large increase in divorce filings for a variety of reasons.
Typically, the divorce rates are known to increase for several months, peaking in early March. The phenomenon isn’t just limited to the U.S., as the U.K. also sees an increase in couples seeking divorces during this busy time.
WHY THE INCREASING DIVORCE RATE?
What is exactly behind the trend? Is there any one reason that couples want to get divorced early on in the year? Well, it is easy to see that the issue is multi-faceted. No doubt, each couple’s situation and reasons for divorce are unique; however, there are many issues that overlap.
Here are some of the top reasons couples choose to starting filing around January 2nd:
- The holidays and family gatherings are over
- A new year calls for new resolutions and fresh starts
- Less busy schedule at the start of the year
- More availability in the courts
- Financial and tax pros for waiting
While there is no “perfect time” for divorce, the beginning of the New Year seems to give many couples the boost they need to go through with dissolving their marriage. While many may perceive this as a negative way to start the beginning of a new year, it is actually the fresh start and freedom that many individuals having been waiting to pursue the whole year before.
Are you considering divorce? Unsure of whether you should wait or start the filing process now? Collins Family & Elder Law Group is here to provide the support and legal guidance you need to take the next step forward into your new year.
