January is sometimes called “divorce month,” because there tends to be an increase in the number of divorces filed in the first month of the new year. With the holidays fast approaching, many couples who have been having troubles come together again for the family and kids. However, after the new year, many of the same problems re-emerge and may lead to a spouse filing for divorce.
If you are wondering whether your spouse is considering a divorce and want to know how you should prepare to protect yourself and your children, talk to your North Carolina divorce attorney about your rights and options in a divorce or separation.
Why is January Divorce Month?
While January is not the peak month for judges granting a divorce, there is generally an increase in divorce filings in January compared to November and December. December tends to have the lowest rate for divorces, which may not be surprising for many couples.
There are a few reasons why couples may not file for divorce in November and December and prefer to wait until the new year. Especially when the couple has kids, they may try and keep the family together for one more holiday season. November and December have some of the busiest family-oriented holidays with Thanksgiving and Christmas. This time of year, kids are out of school and many people go on trips to visit extended family over the holidays.
A couple may try and stay together so their kids will not have to deal with the difficult news of a divorce. The couple may also not want to deal with talking to parents and other family members about a divorce, which may include a lot of unwanted advice and conversation.
There may also be a lot of nostalgia around the holidays when people think about the good times they had during the past Christmas holidays or New Year's Eve parties. Movies, TV shows, and songs can all increase the magical feeling of the holidays when couples put in extra effort to work together. Unfortunately, when New Year's Day hits, the effects of the holidays can come to an end, leaving couples with the same problems they were dealing with before the holidays.
New Year for Change
The new year is also a time for resolutions, life changes, and trying something new. While many New Year's resolutions are about things like stopping smoking or going to the gym every day, some people may be looking for more major life changes, like seeking a divorce.
If you suspect your spouse may be filing for divorce in the new year, you are likely to have time to prepare. In North Carolina, the couple has to live separately and apart for a year before they can seek a divorce. This should give any couple enough time to think about whether a divorce is the best option and to give them time to find a divorce lawyer to deal with child custody, property division, and alimony.
Planning for a Divorce
At Caulder & Valentine Law Firm, PLLC, we have helped spouses protect their rights and interests in a North Carolina divorce or child custody dispute. Contact us today in Shelby for a consultation.
