Often termed “Divorce Month,” January has become notorious for a rise in divorce rates. It simply seems like people choose to file at the start of the new year more than they do in the months prior. There’s a notable decline in divorce filings through the fall months, but all of that decline is usually washed out in January with a significant spike.
If you feel that this may occur in your own marriage, with either you or your spouse filing for divorce, you may wonder why January has this reputation. What is it about the new year that causes a rise in divorce rates?
Many couples attempt to avoid the holidays
In a lot of cases, couples are just trying not to get divorced during the holidays, even if they want to. It can get complicated to try to juggle the holidays and divorce, and parents especially may feel like it will negatively impact the experience for the children. They will wait until the holiday season is done to file.
In other cases, couples who are on the brink of divorce may see the holidays as the last chance to fix the marriage. They understand that the holidays are supposed to be a fun, joyful time for the whole family. They think that they may be able to grow closer to their spouse and prevent a divorce. When that doesn’t happen, then they file in January, feeling that they have no other option at that point.
Of course, there’s also something to be said for New Year’s resolutions and getting a fresh start. This is a common trend in January, and divorce may be part of it for many couples who know that they need something new. If you decide that it’s time to get divorced this year, just take the time to look into all of the legal options at your disposal, and make sure you understand all of your rights.
