March Is a Busy Month For Divorce

Divorce attorneys are tucked away behind their desks for much of late winter and early spring.

Much of that is due to the fact that divorce rates peak in March, according to NPR. That makes March one of the busiest months for divorce attorneys.

Why?

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One theory attributes the spike in divorces around this time of year is due to a “seasonal enlightenment.”

Basically, the winter holiday season drives couples crazy. The holidays are busy, stressful, and full of potential issues for those on the brink of divorce.

They’re also a time that revolves around family, so if a couple is not feeling it, the holidays can only aggravate negative feelings. Having to deal with in-laws, tight budgets, holiday depression and infidelity are four reasons why the holidays can test a marriage.

Valentine’s Day can also be a divorce trigger, reports The Huffingotn Post. In fact, the international day of love might serve as a wake-up call for couples who may already be on the path to slowly drifting away from one another.

The improving economy could also be an explanation to the rising divorce rate. When times are tough, money concerns overshadow marital concerns. But once the economy picks up, people find themselves with more cash on hand to pay the fees for a divorce attorney.

A last thought: Tax season may also play a role in the March divorce spike. Tax filing status is determined at year-end. So if you’re married on December 31, you can still file jointly on April 15, even if you filed for divorce in March.

Whatever the cause, divorce is a long and painful process. If you’re considering divorce, talk to a divorce lawyer and find out what is involved. It may be wise to start doing your research early.

Related Resources

• Divorce (FindLaw)
• 5 Rules for Social Media Use During Divorce (FindLaw’s Law and Daily Life)
• Getting a Divorce? 3 Ways to Get Help (FindLaw’s Law and Daily Life)