January has a reputation for new beginnings. In recent years, it has also been associated with a particular type of ending—divorce. Is it true that “January” is the peak divorce month in the United States?
A recent article in The New York Times takes a look at whether January really stacks up to be the biggest month of the year for divorce. January is great for a lot of things—but getting divorced is probably not one of them. Here is why.
While the circumstances of divorce are different for everyone, in some ways, they are the same. Most people take some time to think about ending their marriage. During the busy holiday season between November and December, spouses take stock of the pleasures and pain of relationships, family, and their future.
By January, occasional thoughts can become solid plans for a different path by the end of the next year. In that regard, it may be that January is where many spouses turn the corner on their decision to transition to a different life plan. As well, ending out the tax year in one status assists with detailed planning for tax changes that will occur the following year due to divorce.
If we gauge national interest in divorce on internet searches, Google Trends tells us people are more interested in divorce beginning in March and carrying on through the summer months. These trends key into an important aspect of any divorce—planning.
Time to take stock of your situation
While January may be when many partners become committed to divorce, it is not when divorce is generally filed or concluded. After a decision is made to divorce, the next best move is to take stock, talk with a divorce attorney, and help yourself imagine the best way to handle a divorce, including the outcomes that you seek.
You can help yourself and your lawyer better understand your situation by gathering information that will help you create an effective plan for your divorce. These documents can include:
- Tax returns, income and balance sheet, net worth, business ownership documents
- Documents that reflect ownership of real property or other assets
- Bank, retirement, and savings account statements
- Life insurance policies
- Wage records
- Documents that reflect credit card, mortgage, or other debt owed by you or your spouse
Preparing for divorce is important, especially if children are involved. In Maryland, couples (even those with minor children) are able to obtain a mutual consent divorce without the former one-year waiting period.
While January may be when discomfort turns to decision, gathering documents and setting up for transition can take some time—which may be why Google Trends pegs more interest in divorce by spring into summer.
Regardless of the calendar season, when you have questions about how divorce might work for you or your family, speak with an experienced divorce attorney in your area.
Experienced family law attorney helps you in Baltimore today
With offices in Stevenson, the Law Offices of Allyson B. Goldscher, LLC serve individuals and families throughout Baltimore and Baltimore County. When you have questions about divorce, property division or child custody, call us at 410-602-9522 or contact us online. We are here to help.
