Whether people file for divorce more often at certain times of the year has long been debated. Rather than relying on myths and anecdotal data, a new study provides data from divorce filings that offers some answers.
The University of Washington compiled divorce filings in Washington from 2001 to 2015. This research shows that divorce spikes in March and August, which contradicts the popular notion that January is “divorce month.”
Why these two months?
People tend to avoid breaking up their family during holidays, especially if they have children. So while they may be considering divorce in October or November, they are much less likely to initiate divorce proceedings in December. In fact, in the University of Washington study, the fewest divorce filings were in December.
Filings begin to rise in January and peak in March, according to this study’s data. Perhaps after the holidays, people begin seriously considering divorce again. After a month or two of thinking about it and talking to a lawyer, March is a logical point when filings would increase.
In the summer, parents also seem reluctant to ruin summer vacation plans and upset their kids. After getting through the bulk of the summer, however, people considering divorce tend to move forward with it. August is the second most common month for divorce filings, coming in just slightly behind March.
What should you do if you are thinking about divorce?
Divorce is a deeply personal decision. You may fall into the March and August divorce trend or you may not. This is a choice only you can make, and only you know when the time is right.
Speaking with a divorce attorney can help you make the right decision for you and your family. As an objective party who understands the legal and personal implications of divorce and custody, a lawyer can provide invaluable answers and information.