Why Divorce Rates Rise When Temperatures Fall
Once upon a time, January was informally known as “divorce month.” Even though marital strife and divorce can happen at any time of the year, the majority of filings usually seemed to come in with the new year. But change is in the air.
A recent study by Findlaw.com recently reported that divorce filings are trending toward the spring season now, with March emerging as the new “divorce month.”
FindLaw.com analyzed divorce filings across America between 2008 and 2011 with Westlaw, a legal research database, and discovered that divorces shoot up in January, rise throughout February and peak in late March. To use their own numbers: “divorce” and related phrases such as “family law” and “child custody” jumped 50 percent – from just over 10,000 in December 2010 to nearly 16,000 in January 2011, and continued to surge through March.
That’s a pretty big jump in a very short time, and experts are divided on why there’s such a huge surge that arrives like clockwork every year.
Why so Many Winter/Spring Divorces?
Carol Anderson, who counsels divorcing couples with minor children, pins it on one thing: money. “People fight about money over the holidays,” she says. “It starts with Thanksgiving, then you’re visiting in-laws, then you have to buy Christmas gifts for the kids. Money is the No. 1 thing people fight about.”
In an interview with Dallas’ CW33, divorce attorney Tim Hoch detailed the three month plan for couples who are considering filing a divorce: “We call January the decision month, February the planning month and then March is the filing month.” Others are quick to point out that divorce is a largely emotional reaction, and emotional reactions rarely wait until the time is “right.”
Several other theories have been offered, including income tax issues (your status December 31st determines how you file your taxes), a need to “be happy” for their children or extended family over the holiday season causing them to delay, or they could simply want to avoid the stress of divorce during an already stressful season.
Ultimately, there is no one answer. There are a variety of reasons that lead up to a divorce, and many reasons people will try to make it work. Each marriage and divorce is different.
Are You Contemplating Getting a Divorce?
Are you contemplating getting a divorce and need legal advice? Contact Fine & Associates today at (647) 496-2860. Our team of dedicated divorce lawyers understand that this is a challenging time for you and your family. That’s why we treat you with respect, professionalism and courtesy.