January is reportedly the most popular time of the year to file a divorce. The month has even been ominously nicknamed ‘Divorce month’ in legal circles due to the increased number of enquiries relating to the commencement of divorce proceedings. It seems that divorce rates appear to show a seasonal pattern in that the number of divorces tends to increase after both the summer and winter breaks. According to a poll of 2,000 spouses conducted by a legal firm, Irwin Mitchell, one in five married couples are considering separating from their partners after staying together over the festive period.

We all know the lead up to and preparations for Christmas day can be stressful. The cost of gifts, decorations, food and other arrangements can sometimes put a financial squeeze on couples over the winter period. Even more so when there are children involved as most families seek to ensure that the children of the family have the magical experience that the well-known stories promise them. Once the preparations have finally been completed, you’re then faced with making Christmas day a day to remember. Family members who perhaps haven’t seen each other for a while get together and, with relationships that are perhaps already on the rocks, tensions can worsen. The hype and grand expectations of Christmas day make it a difficult day to satisfy everybody’s expectations and when the day isn’t what you expected, it is no surprise that your relationship may suffer as a consequence.

The bottom line: If your relationship has suffered over the Christmas period; you are not alone. Whilst there might be an upward trend in divorce numbers in the month of January, you should only ever consider commencing divorce proceedings at a time that is right for you and always consider whether alternative options such as mediation/family counselling are more appropriate.

However, if the festive period is found to be the decisive factor in determining your choice to commence divorce proceedings, please do not hesitate to contact our specialist family solicitors at Poole Alcock who will be on hand to guide you through the process and support you through what is very often an emotionally challenging time.

We have family solicitors at all of our offices across Cheshire. Click here to book an appointment or call now on 0800 389 7093. Alternatively you can visit our Divorce and Family services page here or complete this form for a call back.