At the beginning of the year, there was a lot of hype about January being named “divorce month.” According to several articles, there is an uptick in online searches and calls to divorce attorneys right after the holidays.
However, it seems that early spring and late summer are when there is a significant increase in divorces. What is the reasoning behind these spikes?
A time of transition
Most people associate August with summer vacations, cookouts and back-to-school shopping. For couples with school-aged children, the end of summer marks a transition time with new schedules and a return to routine.
After a summer of trying to create Instagram-worthy, perfect summer memories, couples in unhappy marriages are feeling disillusioned. Spending prolonged periods together, on trips and during family events, can exacerbate existing issues. The switch from summer to school provides an opportunity to evaluate their relationship.
Financial stress is one of the most common causes of divorce. Strained budgets from a summer of vacations and childcare costs take another hit with upcoming school-related expenses. For many couples, the post-summer financial reckoning is the breaking point.
From a practical standpoint, August may be considered a more convenient time to file for divorce. By beginning the process before school starts, co-parenting schedules, living arrangements, and other decisions can be close to being resolved before the new academic year begins.
The second half of the fall season is packed with holidays and family-focused celebrations. Initiating divorce proceedings well before these events occur can help minimize the emotional stress for everyone involved.
Still, divorce comes with far-reaching implications. Before starting proceedings, you should speak with a legal professional. They can help you review your options, discuss the financial aspects and prepare you for the divorce process. They will also advocate for your best interests and help ensure there is an equitable distribution of marital assets.
