January has earned a reputation as “divorce month” because it is supposedly when couples flock to divorce lawyers like shoppers chasing post-holiday discounts. But is the idea of a divorce month just a myth perpetuated by sensational headlines, or is there something more to it?
As family law attorneys, we’ve seen firsthand how seasonal trends can influence the timing of marital splits, so we decided to break down this phenomenon to try and divorce fact from fiction.
What Is divorce month?
The term originated from the idea that there’s a sharp increase in the number of divorce filings in January. This belief likely stems from anecdotal evidence and media hype rather than hard data. The myth suggests that couples wait until after the holidays — a time of forced cheer and family gatherings — to address marital issues they’ve been suppressing. It’s a compelling narrative, but the reality is more nuanced.
Celebrities who split in January
Celebrity divorces often fuel the divorce month narrative. High-profile splits like Jeff Bezos and MacKenzie Scott’s announcement in January 2019 grab headlines and make it seem like everyone is following suit.
Similarly, rocker Noel Gallagher of the British band Oasis lost his Wonderwall when he and Sara MacDonald announced their divorce in January 2023. Noel’s famous for his public spats with his volatile brother (and Oasis lead singer) Liam. Happily, his breakup with Sara was amicable.
Celebrity cases like these obviously get plenty of media attention, but they’re exceptions rather than the rule.
The myth of divorce month: Exploring potential explanations
The association between January and divorce likely stems from several factors:
- New year, new beginnings: January is a natural time for people to evaluate their lives and make resolutions. For some, this includes reevaluating their marriages.
- Holiday stress: The holiday season can magnify marital problems. Financial pressures, extended family drama, and unmet expectations often push couples to a breaking point.
- Practical considerations: Many couples delay divorce proceedings until after the holidays to avoid ruining those cherished family traditions everyone pretends to enjoy or because they want to start the new year with a clean slate.
These reasons might explain a slight uptick in consultations, but they don’t make January the official month of divorce.
The real divorce months, according to science
If there are seasons of love, there must be seasons of uncouplings. Research and industry data show that divorce season peaks in March and August, aligning with post-holiday periods and back-to-school transitions. According to a 2016 study from the University of Washington, these months see the most divorce filings, suggesting a cyclical pattern rather than a January-specific trend.
Why the seasonal swings? Timing matters in divorce planning. Spring offers time to regroup after the winter holidays, while summer allows for a fresh start before the school year. The patterns indicate that couples are thoughtful about when they initiate proceedings, often choosing moments that minimize disruption for their families.
Related reading: Reason to Consider Divorce #1: When your spouse smashes your face into a cake on your wedding day
Why it matters to understand the trends
For potential clients of LaGrandeur & Williams, understanding these trends is essential. Divorce is a major life decision that shouldn’t be rushed or influenced by the myth of a divorce month or season. Instead, focus on what makes sense for your unique circumstances. Whether you’re seeking a fresh start in January or planning for a transition later in the year, it’s essential to work with experienced family law attorneys whose expertise and compassion can help ease the process.
Breaking the myth
While January does see an increase in divorce inquiries, it’s not the divorce bonanza that headlines suggest. Instead of labelling one month as the “best” or “most popular” time to file for divorce, it’s more accurate to recognize the seasonality of divorce as part of a larger trend. And just as every marriage is unique, so too is every divorce. Timing your decision should depend on what’s best for you and your family, not on a misleading myth.
No matter the time of year, the experienced family law attorneys at LaGrandeur & Williams are here to provide the legal representation you can count on. If you are in Western Washington and considering a divorce, consult with us for a free case evaluation.