The new year has barely begun, but if you’ve noticed that some of your friends and relatives are contemplating divorce—or if you’re considering it yourself—there might be a reason behind this trend.
New Year’s Day is often referred to as “Divorce Day” because it’s one of the most common times of the year for people to initiate the process of splitting up. While it may seem harsh, this timing actually makes sense for many couples.
Why Divorce Spikes in January
For many married couples, particularly those with children, the holiday season is a time of holding things together, often with the hope that festive family gatherings might strengthen their relationship. Many couples delay making any major decisions about separation during this time, wanting to preserve a peaceful environment for their children and families. Once the holidays are over, however, reality sets in, and couples who have been struggling often begin to consider a fresh start.
Research shows that 1 in 5 couples starts contemplating divorce or separation after the Christmas season. January, with its association to new beginnings and resolutions, represents a symbolic time to take action and finally move forward with decisions that were put off during the holidays.
Other Key Divorce Periods
Interestingly, divorce rates also spike at other points throughout the year. According to researchers from the University of Washington, August sees another increase in divorce filings. The summer months often serve as a last attempt to salvage relationships, with family vacations offering couples a chance to reconnect. However, when these vacations fail to improve the relationship—or, worse, when they highlight the issues within the marriage—couples may view the end of summer as the right time to separate, especially before the new school year begins.
Timing and Emotional Considerations
The times of year that are typically filled with joy and family-focused activities can sometimes amplify the struggles within a marriage. Couples often go into the holiday season or a summer vacation with hopes that the time together will fix what’s broken. However, when that doesn’t happen, the start of the New Year or the end of summer becomes a natural moment to make the difficult decision to move on.
When to Seek Legal Help
Every marriage is unique, and the decision to divorce is deeply personal. If you’re considering divorce, it’s important to approach it with clear guidance from experienced professionals who can help you navigate the emotional and legal complexities.
The family law attorneys at the DiPietro Family Law Group have decades of experience handling divorce and family law matters. We are here to help you through this challenging time and ensure that your rights are protected.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation with a caring professional at (888) 530-4374.
