Each year, divorce numbers start to rise in January up through a peak in February or March. The winter is often considered “divorce season” for this reason.
Why is it that this time of year sees more divorces than others? There are a few factors that play into the increased incidence of divorces in the first quarter of the year.
- The holidays are over: This is perhaps the biggest reason for the increase in divorces early in the year. People simply don’t want to have to deal with divorce-related issues over the holidays. They may also try to make one last go of it over Thanksgiving and Christmas for the sake of their family, but when the holiday shine wears off they realize divorce is their best option. Or, perhaps the holidays were so stressful that the couple realized they are better off separate than together.
- New Year’s resolutions: The turn of a calendar encourages people to consider new goals and what they want their lives to look like in a new year. For people who are unhappy in their marriage, they may see the new year as a time to start fresh and move on from a relationship that is no longer fulfilling to them.
- The season: Seasonal depression tends to occur in the earlier months of the year, and some people might try to combat it by making some positive changes in their lives. This may include moving on from a bad relationship.
- Taxes: Some people get divorced at the start of a new year for tax purposes. If they are married for at least a day in the new year, they’re still able to legally file their taxes together, which can help ease the financial transition.
If you need legal counsel for an upcoming divorce, contact an experienced divorce lawyer in Minneapolis at Appelhof, Pfeifer & Hart, P.A.