Why Is January the Start of Divorce Season?

ByBob Merlin

January is widely recognized as the start of “divorce season.” Divorce season means there is a significant increase in the number of new divorce cases filed in the first part of the year.  The reasons for the increase are in part a matter of timing. After the busy holiday season, many people are ready for a fresh start.  For some, it is time to face issues in their marriage and decide that it is time to move on.

After the Holidays: A Time for Change

January is Divorce Month

For most people, the holidays are about family and togetherness. During this time, many choose not to address serious issues like divorce because they don’t want to disrupt family dynamics, especially with children involved. Once the new year begins, it feels like a fresh start. For some, January symbolizes a new beginning, and they decide it is time to go in a different direction. It’s not unusual for couples to hold off on making these tough decisions until after the holidays.

The First Quarter: A Busy Time for Divorce Lawyers

After the holidays come to an end, divorce lawyers often see an increase in cases. Many who have been thinking about divorce find that January is the time to move forward. They may have postponed the decision until after the holidays, when family vacations are over, and life is returning to the old routine.

The Holidays Aren’t Always the End of the Relationship

While it might seem unusual to some, it is possible for divorcing parents to maintain a cooperative relationship after the divorce, especially when they prioritize their children’s well-being. Interestingly, some divorced couples still travel together. Traveling together after a divorce can show your children that even though their parents’ relationship has changed, they still care about their happiness and are committed to providing a stable environment. Some divorced couples work together to get along for the sake of their children.

This emphasizes the importance of choosing the right divorce process, as it will make these peaceful, cooperative arrangements more achievable.

Collaborative Divorce: A Positive Option

The type of divorce process you choose matters. In situations where children and family dynamics are important, choosing the Collaborative Divorce process will help to keep things amicable. Collaborative Divorce focuses on cooperation, reducing the emotional impact on children and extended family. Unlike litigation, which can lead to animosity and long-term damage to relationships, Collaborative Divorce encourages rational thinking and healthy resolutions. If you want to move forward in a way that protects your family’s future and minimizes conflict, this could be the best path for you.

Contact the Law Offices of Robert J. Merlin, P.A.

If you’re considering divorce and want to find a peaceful solution, the Law Offices of Robert J. Merlin can guide you through the Collaborative Divorce process. We focus on helping couples work together to create agreements that benefit everyone, especially the children. Reach out today to learn more about how we can assist you in achieving a respectful and amicable divorce. Call Robert J. Merlin at (305) 448-1555 to schedule a consultation. The Law Offices of Robert J. Merlin, P.A. are located at 250 Catalonia Ave, Suite 706, Coral Gables, FL 33134.

Robert J. Merlin is Board Certified in Marital and Family Law by The Florida Bar since 1994 and a Florida Supreme Court Certified Family Court Mediator. He is also an Accredited Collaborative Professional through the Florida Academy of Collaborative Professionals and is widely respected for his commitment to non-adversarial divorce and family law solutions.

Robert has been recognized as one of the Top Lawyers in Florida by Florida Super Lawyers Magazine since 2009, named to the Florida Legal Elite by Florida Trend Magazine since 2008, and listed among the Top Lawyers in South Florida by the South Florida Legal Guide Magazine since 2003.

Bob MerlinBob Merlin
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Bob Merlin is a Florida Bar Board Certified Family Law Specialist, he practices in the areas of divorce, time-sharing of children and parenting plans, child support, alimony, paternity, pre-nuptial and post-nuptial agreements, and cohabitation/partnership agreements.

As an experienced Collaborative attorney, Bob continually hones his skills in the Collaborative Process and trains other professionals how to become a Collaborative professional as he is.

“My goal is to help divorcing and other family law clients make well-informed decisions so they experience a more efficient process and feel more in control over their futures.”

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