Year after year, Family Law Attorneys notice a similar pattern. Statistically, January brings a sharp increase in Divorce filings. In fact, the first few weeks of the new year are so consistently busy that January has earned the nickname “Divorce Month.” For individuals and families in Central Florida, this seasonal trend raises important legal, financial, and emotional considerations. So why does January trigger so many Divorce cases, and what should you understand before taking legal action?
Well, the holiday season may act as a pause button rather than a solution. Many couples push serious marital issues aside in November and December to preserve stability for minor children. Other reasons may include family gatherings, financial circumstances, etc. However, once the holidays wrap up, unresolved problems potentially resurface.
With resolutions and personal goals top of mind, January also represents a psychological reset. New Year’s resolutions encourage reflection, honesty, and long-term planning. For some, this reflection leads to the realization that their marriage is no longer sustainable. Others see the new year as a fresh opportunity to make a difficult but necessary change.
Financial timing plays a role as well. Year-end bonuses, tax planning, and holiday expenses often delay Divorce decisions until January, when finances feel more predictable. From a legal standpoint, this timing can significantly affect property division, Child Support and Alimony calculations, and tax consequences.
In Florida, Divorce is legally referred to as Dissolution of Marriage, and the process follows specific statutory requirements. While January is a popular time to file, it is not always the best time for every situation. Filing without preparation can create unnecessary delays or detrimental outcomes.
For example, Florida is an Equitable Distribution state, meaning Marital assets and debts are divided fairly, not necessarily equally. The date of filing may have an impact on what is considered Marital Property, particularly when it comes to bonuses, retirement contributions, or business income earned early in the year. Working with a skilled Family Law Attorney will allow you to make informed decisions as they relate to the law.
Child custody (known in Florida as Timesharing) and Child Support are also significant considerations. January filings often coincide with school schedules, making it important to plan carefully around educational stability and Parenting Plans. Our Central Florida Family Law Attorneys at The Marks Law Firm, P.A. are available to answer any questions you may have regarding how the Divorce process relates to your minor children. We let our Clients know upfront, our top priority is to make decisions in the best interests of any minor children involved.
You may not know this, but the Courts tend to experience higher caseloads early in the year. This can affect scheduling, Hearing timelines, and overall case duration.
Hiring an experienced Orlando Divorce lawyer allows you to approach the process deliberately rather than reactively. Whether your case involves high-conflict Custody issues, complex assets, or Collaborative Law, having proper and appropriately trained legal counsel makes a difference.
At The Marks Law Firm, P.A., we regularly assist Clients throughout Central Florida, including Orlando, Winter Park, Metro West, Windermere, Dr. Phillips, Oviedo, Lake Mary, Heathrow, Clermont to name a few specific regions.
If you are considering Divorce or have already decided that this month is the right time to move forward, you do not have to navigate doing so alone. Contact The Marks Law Firm, P.A., in Orlando today to schedule a consultation with one of our Family Law Attorneys. After all, the decisions you make now can shape your financial security, co-parenting dynamic, and peace of mind for years to come.