The first Monday back to work after the New Year has been dubbed "Divorce Monday" by matrimonial lawyers due to the increase in the number of people filing for divorce. With the festivities over, many people commence new routine which may include dry January or starting a new diet. For some couples it can be an extremely difficult time as they end their relationship or marriage.
The holiday period can be a stressful time for many couples when financial and family pressures can be highlighted over an extended period of time spent together. Research shows that more relationships break down in January than any other month of the year.
Despite the usual rise in the monthly figures, divorce rates for heterosexual couples in the UK dropped by nearly 10% from 2017 to 2018. In fact. 2018 saw the lowest amount of couples divorcing in England and Wales since 1971. This decrease may be the result of many couples of a electing not to get married and cohabit on a long term basis without formalising their relationship with a legal marriage.
Interestingly, divorce rates for same sex couples has increased by more than a quarter over the same period. This decrease is perhaps not surprising as marriages for same-sex couples have only been possible since 2014 in England and Wales.
Even though January may be the most "popular" month for divorce applications to be filed, the right time to make necessary steps towards divorce will be dependent on the couple themselves. Before taking any drastic steps, DQ can provide you with advice on how to move on and cause as little disruption as possible for the benefit of the family as a whole. At DQ Advocates we understand that nothing is more important than family. We also understand the profound effects disputes can have on families.
DQ's Family Law team works with you to attempt to minimise the disruption and potential expense faced when resolving such issues. We can offer advice on a broad range of different areas of family law including; divorce, children's matters, cohabitation, complex financial concerns and pre and post nuptial agreements. We can provide you with the necessary advice and support you need to protect your interests and those of your loved ones.
The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.