Why Is Divorce So Common In January?
January has been dubbed “divorce month” for many years now. Many psychologists, relationship coaches, and legal experts believe that couples decide to end their marriage at the beginning of the year for many reasons. Truthfully, August is typically the month of the year when the divorce rate is higher than other times of the year. Still, that only means more divorces are finalized in August, and many of those cases may have started in January. So, why do couples consider ending their marriage at the beginning of the year? Below, our Long Island divorce lawyer explains.
Increased Stress from the Holidays
The holidays are a time of fun and good cheer, but they are also extremely stressful. Family obligations can put added pressure on a marriage that is already fragile, and finances are often a source of worry and stress, too. Additionally, people often find they simply do not have enough time to do everything that needs to be done during the holidays, which can also place stress on a marriage.
Keeping a United Front During the Holidays
When a couple is thinking about ending their marriage, they often want to wait until after the holidays to make the announcement. Couples who have children often want to give the kids one more seemingly normal and happy holiday season. Others simply do not want to deal with all of the questions that come with a divorce announcement during the holidays.
Time for Self-Evaluation
Many people make New Year’s resolutions at the end of the year. It is a time for people to consider self-improvement, which may include ending an unhappy and unhealthy marriage. There is a link between people giving themselves a fresh start at the beginning of the year.
Financial Worries
Again, the holidays are not only stressful, but they are also a time when people find their budget is especially tight. The added cost of the holidays can place stress on a family, but it is also one reason people wait until January to file for divorce. Divorce is an expensive process and truthfully, many people may find they cannot afford it with the additional cost of the holiday season.
Tax Concerns
While many reasons for January divorces pertain to the end of the year, one reason is actually the middle of the year – tax time. Many people choose to get divorced before tax season so they do not have to change their marital status on their tax returns. While this is not a major cause of divorce, it is something some couples consider.
Our Divorce Lawyer in Long Island Can Help with Your Case
If you are thinking about ending your marriage, our Long Island divorce lawyer at the Law Office of Joshua Adam Kittenplan, P.C., can assist with your case and advise you of your legal options. Call us now at 631-499-0606 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with our skilled attorney and to obtain the legal advice you need.
Source:
law.justia.com/codes/new-york/2018/dom/article-10/170/
