Divorce, like many aspects of life, tends to follow a seasonal pattern. While couples file for divorce year-round, some studies and court data show that certain times of the year see higher spikes in divorce filings than others. But why do divorces tend to surge during particular seasons? Let's break down the most common times for divorce in the U.S. and the potential reasons behind these seasonal trends. 

Peak Divorce Seasons: When Are Most Divorces Filed?

1. January: "Divorce Month"

If there's one month that stands out for divorce filings, it's January. Lawyers often refer to it as “Divorce Month” because it consistently sees an uptick in new divorce cases. The reasons?
✔ New Year, New Beginnings – Many people view the start of the year as a fresh start, prompting them to finally take action on a troubled marriage.
✔ Post-Holiday Reality Check – Couples often try to hold things together during the holidays for the sake of children and family gatherings. Once the celebrations end, reality sets in.
✔ Financial Planning & Tax Considerations – People may wait until after the holiday season and year-end bonuses before filing.

2. March & April: The Spring Surge

The first quarter of the year—especially March and April—sees another major spike in divorces.
✔ Post-Holiday Reflection – By spring, people who first considered divorce in January have taken the time to consult lawyers and prepare paperwork.
✔ Spring Brings Change – Warmer weather and longer days often motivate people to move forward with life decisions.
✔ Financial & Tax Timing – Many wait until after tax season to finalize a split, especially if they need tax returns for financial planning.

3. August & September: The Back-to-School Spike

Late summer and early fall bring another wave of divorce filings, especially in August and September.
✔ Waiting Until Summer Break Ends – Couples with children often wait until the kids are back in school to avoid disrupting summer vacations.
✔ Summer Stress & Reflection – Many couples spend more time together during vacations, which can either repair or intensify marital tensions.
✔ Timing for Custody & Holidays – Filing in the fall allows time to work out custody agreements before the holiday season.

When Do the Fewest Divorces Happen?

1. November & December: Holiday Lull

Divorce filings tend to dip significantly in November and December because:
🚫 People don't want to disrupt family holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas.
🚫 Parents often wait until after the new year to avoid affecting their children's holiday experience.
🚫 Emotional and financial stress during the holidays discourages major legal decisions.

What Does This Mean for You?

If you're considering divorce, timing can impact financial, emotional, and family stability. Each season comes with unique challenges and benefits when filing. If you're uncertain about when to move forward, it's important to consult with an experienced divorce attorney to help you navigate the process.

Need a Divorce Attorney?

At Shakhan & Wilkerson Law we help clients navigate the complexities of divorce—no matter the season. If you're ready to file now our experienced attorneys can guide you through the process with confidence and clarity.

📞 Contact us today at (478) 845-1213 or (404) 999-9529 and take the first step toward afresh start.