As the new year begins, the joy and warmth captured in holiday cards can feel out of reach for some families. Beneath the glow of twinkling lights and festive meals, cracks in relationships may become impossible to ignore. It’s no coincidence that January—often called “Divorce Month”—sees a significant spike in divorce filings, with nearly one-third of all cases initiated during this time. For many, the holidays become a final, painful tipping point.
Why is January known as “Divorce Month”?
January sees a surge in divorce filings for several emotional, practical, and logistical reasons. The holiday season, with all its stresses and expectations, often serves as the final tipping point for unhappy married couples.
1. The holidays magnify existing problems
The holiday season often creates high expectations for joy and togetherness. However, for couples already struggling, the holidays can magnify their issues. Spending more time together, hosting events, and dealing with family dynamics often highlight the cracks in a relationship.
Unresolved conflicts, communication breakdowns, and dissatisfaction become harder to ignore when couples are surrounded by the “perfect holiday” imagery portrayed in movies and social media.
2. Waiting for the “right time” to file
Many couples delay filing for divorce until after the holidays for several reasons:
- Preserving family harmony: Parents often avoid starting divorce proceedings during the festive season to shield their children and extended family from emotional distress.
- Avoiding social fallout: The holidays involve numerous social gatherings, and couples may want to present a united front before announcing their separation.
- Financial considerations: Waiting until the end of the tax year allows couples to file joint returns one last time, which can simplify finances during a divorce.
By January, the holidays are over, making it a more practical and less disruptive time to begin the divorce process.
3. The new year symbolizes fresh starts
January represents new beginnings and self-improvement for many people. This mindset of change and renewal often prompts individuals to reevaluate their lives and relationships.
For those in unhappy marriages, the start of the year feels like the right time to take control of their futures and make bold decisions, including filing for divorce. A new year offers a clean slate and the promise of a brighter, more fulfilling future.
4. Failed holiday reconciliations
Some couples see the holidays as a last chance to reconnect or salvage their relationships. They may hope that family traditions, time off work, or shared celebrations will rekindle their bond.
Unfortunately, these efforts don’t always succeed. When the holidays fail to heal the relationship, January becomes the logical time to move forward with divorce plans.
5. Financial and legal reasons
Divorce is a complex process, and many people use the months leading up to January to prepare. Financial and legal reasons may include:
- Time to gather resources: People often spend the holiday season consulting lawyers, organizing financial documents, and preparing emotionally for divorce. By January, they’re ready to take action.
- Court and lawyer availability: Courts and legal professionals are typically less accessible during the holiday season. January marks the return of full operations, which makes it easier to begin the legal process.
- Tax planning: The end of the tax year allows couples to finalize their joint finances before filing for divorce, which streamlines the transition to separate financial lives.
Why are gray divorces becoming more common in January?
A rising trend within January’s divorce surge is gray divorce. These are divorces involving couples over the age of 50. Since 1990, divorce rates for Americans aged 55 and older have doubled. Among those aged 65 and older, the rate has tripled.
Interestingly, women are behind many of these late-life divorces. The reasons vary, but they often stem from deep reflections on what individuals want from the next chapter of their lives.
After years of raising children, running households, and managing family obligations, many women find themselves reevaluating their relationships. With children grown and out of the house, women have the space to consider their happiness and whether their marriage aligns with their long-term goals.
Increased life expectancy also plays a role. Women born in the 1930s were expected to live to about 62 years old. Today, women can expect to live into their 80s or 90s. This longevity means more time to think about how they want to spend the rest of their lives. For some, that future doesn’t include their current spouse. Additionally, long-term marriages can lose their emotional connection or shared interests, which can leave women feeling unfulfilled.
How do I rebuild my financial life after divorce?
Taking control of your financial life is important. Start by gathering records of all assets, debts, and income sources, including:
- Retirement accounts
- Real estate
- Investments
- Pensions
- Shared debts such as mortgages or loans
Planning for your future involves envisioning what you want your post-divorce life to look like. Where will you live? Do you want to travel? What kind of lifestyle do you hope to maintain? Write down your goals and estimate the costs associated with each one. For example, staying in the family home might feel comforting, but it may not be financially sustainable. Creating a realistic plan can help you make informed decisions about your future.
Take the first step toward a brighter future
Getting a divorce is never easy, and the decisions you make during this time can have a lasting impact on your future. That’s why having an experienced Illinois divorce lawyer by your side can make a difference in the outcome.
The attorneys at Courtney Clark Law, P.C. are here to help you protect your rights, your family, and your assets. With a vast knowledge of the Illinois legal system, we can provide legal guidance on child custody, property division, and spousal support.
During your free consultation, you’ll meet with one of our knowledgeable attorneys to discuss your unique situation and the legal options available to you. We’ll explain the divorce process in straightforward terms, outline potential outcomes, and answer your most pressing questions. This initial meeting is not only a chance to understand your case but also an opportunity to begin crafting a strategy tailored to your needs and goals.
While January can be a convenient time to get a divorce, the process can be complicated. Let our divorce lawyers help. Contact us online or call our Belleville law office today to learn more.
“Made an extremely difficult time of my life that much easier.” - MM, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐