The magic of the holidays is over and reality has set back in. As tax returns come through and the “New Year, fresh start” mantra is spread all over the internet, couples begin to think that it might be time to finally throw in the towel.
Studies have shown that the first three months of the year (January, February, and March) are the most common months for divorce inquiries and filings. Charlene Edwards Law Office is here to help with your divorce and family law questions or needs.
The End of the Holiday Era Leads to Divorce Spikes
The first three months of the year are a period of transition out of the holiday season and into the new year. Many times over the holidays, couples want to provide a happy, stable, and safe home for their children and families. However, as the magic of the holiday season fades, so does the facade of a happy marriage.
As the mindset of the culture shifts from family, nostalgia and celebration to self-improvement, fresh starts and new habits, couples begin to think about the future of their relationships. They question whether or not staying in a relationship would be best for themselves and families. By beginning to inquire about what the divorce process would look like, struggling couples begin taking steps toward a healthier future.
Tax Planning and Finances for Divorce
One of the most pressing issues that arises for all individuals and families during the first quarter of the year is tax season. Financial planning can put a lot of strain on couples already experiencing problems, which can lead to further arguments. The stress of this season can push fragile relationships to a breaking point.
Additionally, divorce costs money. Waiting until the new year is a strategic financial move, allowing couples to use year-end bonuses for funding and wait until the new tax year to file for divorce. If couples stay together until December 31, they are able to file taxes jointly, often leading to better tax benefits, such as higher standard deductions and lower payments.
Filing for divorce in the beginning of the year allows for smoother financial settlements and planning as well. It allows for more time to sort through documents and come to agreements that are more beneficial for both parties, rather than trying to rush decisions toward the end of the year. Separation of income and assets becomes easier to assess over a 12-month period. From a logistics standpoint, filing for divorce at the beginning of the year is smarter than filing nearer to the end of the year.
Valentine’s Bitterness for Those Considering Divorce
Valentine’s Day has given February the title “the month of love.” Constant exposure to romance and extravagant gestures can further reinforce feelings of unappreciation or disconnection from one’s partner. When relationships are constantly pushed to the front of the minds of unhappy couples, they begin to re-think their marriage situation. A holiday created for the purpose of celebrating love becomes a bitter reminder of the lack thereof in a relationship, which could be a contributing factor in couples’ divorce inquiries during the month of February.
3 Things to Do and Consider Before Hiring An Attorney for Divorce
Before hiring a divorce attorney, make sure to do and consider the following:
- Gather Important Records. Before inquiring about divorce next steps, make sure you have all documents in order. Documents needed include bank statements, retirement accounts, tax returns, pay stubs, property records, and shared liabilities. Additionally, make sure to have your goals and objectives clearly outlined before meeting with a lawyer. This can include child custody arrangements, asset divisions, and spousal support needs.
- Do Your Research. Ensure that your chosen lawyer has helpful experience regarding your situation. Charlene Edwards Law Office has a specialization in Family Law. Our lawyers have experience dealing with divorce, child custody, property distribution, and many other aspects that encompass this division of law. Additionally, research the costs associated with hiring a divorce attorney, including hourly rates and billing logistics.
- Schedule a Consultation. Before moving forward with the divorce process, you must schedule a consultation with a qualified divorce attorney. After choosing Charlene Law Office, navigate to the home page of our website to book a consultation. During this consultation, you can discuss your plan of action, and decide if our attorneys are a good fit for your situation.
Charlene Edwards Law Office is here to protect your rights in all aspects of family law. We will ensure that your best interests are represented, understanding that these situations have huge impacts on individuals and families. It’s not just the law, it’s family. Book your consultation today!