For the last few years, the first working day of January has come to be known as “Divorce Day”- a buzzword-y reflection of an apparent uptake in couples divorcing once the New Year rolls around. In reality, the idea of January seeing a dramatic increase in divorces seems to be somewhat of a myth. But how has “Divorce Day” gained this recognition, and what is the reality for divorcing couples? 

The common reasoning given for January being so en vogue for divorces is twofold. For couples already struggling within their relationships, the holiday season can be a difficult and stressful time, and family gatherings can exacerbate friction. It’s understandable how, at the end of a testing few weeks over the holidays, couples may come to the decision to move ahead with a divorce in the New Year.  Add to that, that the New Year is seen as a time for renewal and change, and couples may emerge from the holiday season resolving to speak to solicitors about divorce.

But is “Divorce Day” really as relevant as the media would have us believe? Although there is some evidence of January being a busy month for divorce and financial remedy cases, research indicates a much more nuanced picture. January is touted as the busiest month by some sources, but other studies suggest that the period in which couples tend to start the divorce process is, in fact, during Spring and Summer. The reasons for these differing timings for separation range from the end of the financial year in March to summer holidays or the start of the new school year.. 

Perhaps then, the biggest takeaway from the “Divorce Day” hype is that choosing to start the divorce process is actually a very personal and considered decision, and that trying to track these trends is a futile exercise. Most people who approach solicitors regarding divorce have been contemplating separation for a long time before they take this step, and each person’s reason for doing so is unique to them. Rather than an annual trend, the decision to proceed with divorce proceedings is a hugely personal one. 

Ultimately, whether or not “Divorce Day” really reflects a wave of New Year divorces has little bearing on an individual person’s decision to end their marriage. It may be that the year-end holidays or a desire for change inspires someone to take legal action, but that decision can also follow Valentine’s Day, Halloween, or a day like any other. What is important is that, once the decision is made, legal advice is sought, so that people can go into the divorce process informed from the outset. 

Any further questions?

If you are considering moving forward with a divorce, you may be interested in our blog post “Is there such a thing as a good divorce?” for general insight regarding what constitutes a “good” divorce.