Why So Many People File for Divorce in January: A Dallas Divorce Lawyer Explains
Over the years, family law firms across the country have observed a pattern: there’s a notable surge in the number of divorces filed in January. They like to call it “The January Divorce Phenomenon” or the “Divorce Season,” and it is no myth or coincidence. As the new year begins, every experienced Dallas divorce lawyer sees an increase in caseloads, with most petitioners desperate to end their marriage. In this blog, we will explore what factors lead to the spike in divorce petitions, specifically in the month of January. Want to learn more? Let’s get started!
What is the January Divorce Phenomenon?
Family law attorneys across Dallas and the rest of the country have documented a post-holiday spike in divorce filings in January. In fact, court statistics also consistently show this trend. This is termed the January Divorce Phenomenon. There are several reasons behind this trend, some of which are common patterns, while others depend on each couple’s unique circumstances.
Why Do Couples Want to Get Divorced in January and Go to a Dallas Divorce Lawyer?
Let us explore the most common reasons why January is considered the Divorce Season:
- Waiting for the Holidays to End:
Many couples admit that they intentionally delayed the divorce filing, waiting for the holiday season to pass. According to an experienced Dallas divorce lawyer, emotions, family focus, and many other reasons often influence this decision. Among these, the three most common ones are:
- Wanting to Protect the Children’s Holiday Experience:
The phase where parents are getting divorced is hard for the children. This is why many couples choose to wait so that their children can enjoy one last normal holiday season before the family falls apart. Sensible parents often do this because they want their children to associate the holidays with celebration, tradition, and stability, not separation or conflict.
- Avoiding Difficult Conversations With Extended Family:
Holiday gatherings mean that the extended family comes together. In such a situation, announcing your separation can be emotionally challenging and sometimes dramatic. Thus, many couples avoid the issue until after the holiday season to dodge uncomfortable questions and judgments that add to an already tense situation. In January, once everyone has returned, it seems a more private and calm time to share the news.
- Holding Onto the Hopes of Reconciliation:
When discussing their case with a Dallas divorce lawyer, many individuals often admit that they were hoping to reconcile during the holidays. The emotional atmosphere often brings renewed closeness in couples, which may lead to the idea of separation being brushed away. However, as the season ends, these hopes fade away, and they realize that their marriage cannot be saved.
- Wanting a Fresh Start With the New Year:
New Year’s resolutions have always been emphasized in our culture, which usually aim at self-improvement and getting back control of your life. This often creates a psychological environment where bringing a major change in life feels appropriate. If someone has been in an unhappy marriage for an extended time, the willingness to start fresh in the new year may arise.
- Reacting to Escalating Family Violence:
It has also been observed that domestic violence increases during the holidays, not just against the spouse but also against the children. This may make the victims feel more desperate to escape. They may want to end the marriage and seek spousal support, child support, and even need restraining orders issued. For this, many individuals reach out to a child support attorney in Dallas in January.
- Tax and Financial Considerations:
Tax and financial considerations are also an integral aspect of a divorce. For example, some couples may wait until January only because they want to file the taxes for the previous year jointly one last time. Additionally, many individuals also get their holiday and annual bonuses during this time. This makes it easier for them to cover any expenses associated with divorce and the fees of the divorce or child support attorney in Dallas.
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Why is Choosing the Right Divorce and Child Support Attorney in Dallas for Your Case Important?
Whether you are contemplating divorce in January or any other month of the year, it is important to understand that a divorce and child support attorney in Dallas has a crucial role. They will help you navigate the process from a legal, financial, and practical perspective. Their roles include:
- Explaining the Texas divorce and child support laws
- Protecting parental rights
- Ensuring correct child support calculations
- Negotiating fair settlements and agreements
To Conclude
Whether it is the “Divorce Season” or not, the decision to end a marriage is rarely sudden. Once you have carefully thought it through, it is crucial that you talk to an experienced Dallas divorce lawyer. If you are in search of such an attorney, Clark Law Group has many of them. Recognized by the Dallas Bar Association and Avvo for their excellent representation skills and the use of tested strategies, these knowledgeable lawyers can make a significant difference in your case, protecting your rights and giving you peace of mind.
