Napthens head of family explains why January is ‘divorce month’

January is becoming ‘divorce month’ as people reassess their lives following stress, tension and conflict over the festive season, says Helen Lucking, partner and head of family and divorce at award-winning north west law firm Napthens. 

 Statistics for 2023 and 2024 show a consistent spike in the number of people seeking divorce or family legal advice in the first month of a new year. 

 About 26 per cent of 110,770 divorce applications made in 2023 arose between January to March of that year, along with an 18.6 per cent rise in divorce applications between January and March 2024 compared to October to December 2023. 

 Helen explained: “The beginning of the new year often brings a sense of reflection. Many individuals take this opportunity to evaluate their personal lives, including their relationships. 

 “It therefore comes as no surprise that there is a consistent and notable spike in the number of people seeking divorce or family law advice in the month of January, effectively branding January as ‘divorce month’.  

 Although Christmas entails excitement, joy and the ability to create magical memories for many families, others associate the festive season with stress, tension and conflict. 

 A survey of 2,000 British households found that the average British family will have at least five arguments during Christmas Day, with the first typically occurring at 10:13am. 

 Helen said: “With a house full of family, children being home from school for two weeks, and the financial pressures of gift giving for many the festive season leads to a breaking point and can be seen as the last straw in the breakdown of a relationship or marriage. 

 “Some individuals may delay applying for a divorce until the new year to attempt to have one last Christmas with the whole family.”  

 She added: “The change of the calendar year often prompts individuals to self-reflect and reassess their lives. For many, this will focus on health, fitness or new hobbies. 

 “But some people will focus on their relationships. January is an ideal month for a life reset, and for some this will include ending an unhappy marriage. The sense of new beginnings the new year brings often acts as a catalyst for those considering divorce.” 

 The approaching end of the tax year in April, might also prompt people to file for divorce in an attempt to conclude matters before 6 April 2025. 

 Helen said: “While the new year may be a more symbolic time for personal resolutions, the beginning of the financial year is important when it comes to organising finances. Finalising a divorce before the end of the tax year provides both parties with financial clarity for the tax year ahead.  

 “Whatever the reason or thinking, it is important those considering divorce seek professional legal advice to navigate this difficult process.”