Have you ever wondered why January seems to be the go-to month for couples to call it quits? You’re not alone. January has unofficially earned the nickname “Divorce Month,” and it’s not just because people are over their New Year’s resolutions already. There’s more to this trend than meets the eye, and it’s not all doom and gloom. Let’s dive in and unravel this January mystery.
The History of January and Divorce
January’s link to divorce isn’t a modern phenomenon. On January 5, 1643, Anne Clark of the Massachusetts Bay Colony was granted the first recorded legal divorce in the American colonies. Her case, grounded in her husband Dennis Clarke’s admitted adultery and abandonment, underscores a long-standing association of January with new personal beginnings, even in the most challenging circumstances.
Why is January “Divorce Month”?
Family law attorneys and courts note a marked increase in divorce inquiries and filings each January, following the typically slow period from Thanksgiving to New Year’s. But why is this the case?
The holiday season is a time of heightened emotion and family involvement. For many, it’s a period of reflection. The stress of the holidays, combined with the close interaction with family (including in-laws), often brings existing marital issues to the forefront. It’s a time when people reassess their lives and relationships, leading to the decision to file for divorce in the new year.
Many couples choose January for practical reasons:
- Financial Benefits: Filing joint tax returns for the previous year, utilizing Christmas bonuses for legal expenses, and waiting for financial stability post-holiday season are significant factors.
- Children’s Welfare: With children returning to school and focusing on their activities, parents often feel it’s a less disruptive time to initiate divorce proceedings.
Statistics and Reasons
While “Divorce Month” has been a phenomenon since the 1970s and 1980s, a University of Washington study showed that divorce filings peak in March and August. This could be attributed to the time needed post-holidays to manage finances and gather necessary information for filing.
A closer look at why so many people choose to file for divorce in January, and what the advantages filing during this month might hold:
Remember, while January might be a popular month for divorce, everyone’s story is different. And like Anne Clarke way back in the 17th century, sometimes you’ve got to make tough calls for your own happiness. Whether you’re facing a tough decision or just curious about this January phenomenon, it’s always good to know you’re not alone in whatever chapter you’re starting. Here’s to new beginnings, whenever they may happen!
