Why Divorce Filings Often Increase After the Holidays
The holiday season is often portrayed as a time of joy, togetherness, and family traditions. Yet, for many couples, it can also highlight deep relationship struggles. Each year, family law attorneys across New Jersey see a noticeable spike in divorce consultations and filings in January and February, right after the holiday season ends.
So why do so many people wait until after the holidays to start the divorce process? The answer lies in a mix of emotional, financial, and practical reasons.
- Many Couples “Wait Until After the Holidays”
For couples already experiencing tension, the holiday season can feel like the wrong time to make a major life change. Many parents choose to “get through” the holidays first, especially when children are involved.
They may want to:
- Maintain stability for their kids
- Avoid disrupting family gatherings
- Keep peace during an already emotional season
As a result, January often becomes the month of reflection and action, when people decide it’s finally time to move forward.
- Holiday Stress Can Magnify Marital Problems
Even the most loving relationships can be tested by the stress of the holidays. Financial pressure from gift-giving, travel, and entertaining can create strain. Add in long hours of preparation, family conflicts, or unrealistic expectations, and small cracks can become much larger.
For couples who were already struggling, this stress can serve as a breaking point. When the holidays end and emotions settle, one or both partners realize they no longer wish to continue the marriage.
- The New Year Feels Like a “Fresh Start”
The new year often inspires people to make changes, from improving health to organizing finances or pursuing long-deferred goals. For some, that includes ending an unhappy marriage.
Divorce may represent a chance to reset their lives, gain independence, and create a more peaceful environment for themselves and their children. This “fresh start” mindset helps explain why divorce filings surge in January and early February, sometimes referred to as “Divorce Season.”
- Financial and Tax Planning Factors
Money can also influence timing. Many couples delay divorce until after year-end to:
- File one last joint tax return
- Receive year-end bonuses or holiday pay
- Finish paying off credit cards or holiday expenses
Additionally, closing out the calendar year allows both spouses to enter the next year with a clearer picture of income, assets, and debts — important details in any divorce proceeding.
- Children and Custody Considerations
Parents often try to shield their children from emotional upheaval during the holidays. Waiting until the new year to file can help minimize the disruption to school schedules and family gatherings.
However, for families already separated or co-parenting, the holiday season can expose custody and visitation challenges, such as disagreements about holiday schedules or travel, that may later lead to formal modifications or filings.
- The Emotional Reset After the Holidays
After the lights come down and the decorations are packed away, many people begin to reflect on their future. The quiet weeks following the holidays often bring clarity and for some, the realization that staying in the relationship is no longer sustainable.
Moving Forward With Compassion and Guidance
If you’re considering divorce after the holidays, know that you’re not alone and that professional guidance can make the process far less stressful. At Simon Law Group, LLC, our family law attorneys help clients throughout Somerset, Hunterdon, Mercer, Morris, Middlesex, and Warren Counties and throughout New Jersey navigate every step with care and discretion.
We understand that no two families are alike. Whether you’re ready to file or simply exploring your options, we can help you protect your rights, your finances, and your children’s best interests.
Contact Simon Law Group
If you’re thinking about divorce in the new year, contact Simon Law Group, LLC 800-709-1131 or TEXT us 908-864-4450 for a confidential consultation. We’ll listen, explain your options, and help you move forward with strength and clarity.
