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Do Divorces Increase in January?

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Kantrowitz, Goldhamer, Graifman, Perlmutter & Carballo, P.C.

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Written/Reviewed By:

Barry S. Kantrowitz, Esq.

Last Updated: Jun 12, 2026

Read Time: 3 mins

Why is January known as the ‘Divorce Month’? CNN recently had an interesting story about how divorce inquiries tend to increase over the month, which is why it has gained its nickname.

According to the news outlet, between 2008 and 2011, a rise in the number of divorces filed occurred each January, followed by a gradual increase in February before a peak in March.

Additionally, “January’s more accurate description would be ‘I’m Starting to Research My Options Month,’” CNN reported.

According to the station, analysts discovered that online searches for phrases like “divorce”, “family law” and “child custody” also increase during January, over the previous month (in some cases by as much as 50 percent), and continue to do so until reaching a peak in March.

Do Holidays Play a Part in Divorce?

So, why do divorce inquiries and actions start to increase in January? CNN reported that many experts think timing has something to do with it.

Some experts told the network that people seeking litigation often decide mentally to move forward with an action before the winter holidays, but do not want to be perceived as heartless. Therefore, they wait until after Christmas and New Year’s before seeking out a divorce.

Additionally, some experts think Valentine’s Day (in February) places undue stress on relationships, which may help divorce inquiry trends continue through the spring.

It should also be noted that financial issues might contribute to divorce proceedings through the spring, as economic complications are a common reason for the deterioration of relationships.

Remember, April includes the IRS tax filing deadline, which could potentially lead to conflict if a couple is in a rocky financial position. Could this be why there seems to be a divorce inquiry peak in March (prior to the April deadline)? It is an interesting question.

Should I Speak to an Attorney About Getting a Divorce?

Again, divorce is something that needs to be taken very seriously. It is not something that you should consider simply because you may have had a bad couple of months financially or emotionally. If you have contemplated a divorce for a while and are ready to move forward, speak to our family law attorneys.

Our lawyers can help you with complex issues such as child custody or the division of marital assets. If you are experiencing issues with your marriage, let our firm arrange your initial consultation.

Talk to our lawyers if you are thinking about divorcing your spouse. We will handle your case with thoughtfulness.

Kantrowitz, Goldhamer, Graifman, Perlmutter & Carballo, P.C. – Divorce Attorneys

KGG’s Corner: A Gallup poll last year found that people who were divorced experienced less daily anxiety than people who are married or separated.

Source: http://www.cnn.com/2014/01/17/living/january-divorce-month-matrimony/

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   LWelsh 
 21 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Clever and efficient.
  
 
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   Kenny Perlow 
 42 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. KGG Law, and Barry Kantrowitz in particular, set the bar high for what a thorough, practical, strategic, compassionate and smart lawyer can be. Everything about Barry's advice and representation was exemplary and the stress mitigation that resulted was invaluable. On top of that, the ultimate result Barry achieved was beyond what was reasonable to expect and we are forever grateful. Often, people say that you hire a lawyer to prevent a problem. Sometimes, unfortunately, you need an attorney to solve a problem and I could not recommend Barry and his firm any more highly in that regard.
  
 
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   Aliza Ali 
 106 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My dad had a great experience with this law firm. From the very beginning, the team was professional, knowledgeable, and always willing to answer our questions. They kept us informed throughout the entire process and made what could have been a very stressful situation much easier to handle. We truly appreciated their dedication, honesty, and hard work. Thanks to their support, my dad felt confident every step of the way. We are very grateful for everything they did and would highly recommend this firm to anyone looking for reliable legal representation.
  
 
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   Jana Montero 
 109 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had a wonderful experience working with Sam Smith. He was very responsive, thorough, and easy to work with from start to finish. He walked me through everything clearly and made what started as a very stressful situation for me into something completely manageable. I would not hesitate to recommend him and the firm!
  
 
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   Mike Sakmann 
 115 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I sought legal advice regarding an employment matter and had an excellent experience working with Sam Smith, Esq. at KGG Law. Sam was thorough, attentive, and took the time to listen carefully to my concerns before providing clear, thoughtful guidance. I appreciated the professionalism and care shown throughout the process, and I would confidently recommend KGG Law to anyone in need of legal assistance.
  
 
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   Liz Hecker 
 121 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I can't say enough about this firm. They manage to comfort you during the whole legal process while staying professional and doing what is right. I would recommend them to anyone and also hire them again if I need legal help.
  
 
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   Brandy Miller 
 144 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Kate is the best. She helped me very quickly, and was very attentive with all of my needs. So thankful for her
  
 
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   Mike Greenspan 
 157 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Kate Carballo is a dedicated, passionate, and creative attorney whom I had the pleasure to lecture with at a state trial lawyer's conference. Kate's lecture demonstrated how she uses her innovative and "out-of-the-box thinking" to achieve outstanding results for her injured clients. That Kate is certified by the Supreme Court of New Jersey as a civil trial attorney is a testament to her skills, experience and commitment to excellence.
  
 
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   Jonathan Sampson 
 164 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Was referred to KGG law by a friend and could not have asked for better legal representation. They walked me through every step of the process after my accident and began every call with “ how are you feeling” which was just one example of how much they care about their clients. They handled my case very efficiently, professionally and courteously. My attorney Kate Carballo was a rock star! So clearly experienced, she consistently made me feel at ease with the process. Highly recommend
  
 
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   Vinnie Kung 
 167 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had a great experience with the team at KGG Law. While it was a traumatic time for our family, they made it very easy for us and explained all of our options. They even performed due diligence to make sure that after our settlement, there would be no further issues which I think is even more important than the settlement itself. Thank you!

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Do Divorces Increase in January?

Do Holidays Play a Part in Divorce?

Should I Speak to an Attorney About Getting a Divorce?

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