Every year, Andersen Law PC and family law firms across the country see a spike in new clients inquiring about divorce at the start of the year, making January often considered “Divorce Month.” While the holidays are viewed as a time for rest and celebration, they can also amplify tension, expose relationship stress, and push already struggling couples toward change. As 2026 approaches, this trend is expected to continue, and the reasons are nuanced.
Holiday Pressure Delays Decisions Until January
Divorce inquiries typically drop in December before jumping in January. There are several reasons people wait to initiate a divorce until after the holidays. By holding off, their goals are often to:
- Avoid disrupting family gatherings.
- Keep the peace for children.
- Prevent difficult conversations with extended family.
- See whether the holidays might “reset” or repair the relationship.
Once the holidays pass, the new year can bring a sense of clarity or confirmation that change is necessary. This combination of reflection, relief and resolution helps explain the January increase in calls and consultations.
Why Couples Wait Until the New Year to Divorce
Beyond holiday pressure, several practical and emotional factors drive the January surge:
1. A “Fresh Start” Mentality
The new year amplifies motivation to evaluate personal goals, finances and long-term happiness. For some, divorce becomes part of a larger life reset.
2. Time to Prepare Financially
Year-end statements and bonuses often make January a strategic time to begin gathering financial information. This is especially helpful when preparing the Sworn Financial Statement and disclosures required early in a Colorado divorce.
3. Emotional Limits Met After the Holidays
For struggling couples, holiday-related stress may serve as the final confirmation that reconciliation isn’t realistic.
4. Children Return to School
Once normal routines resume in January, parents often feel they have the space to consult attorneys without disrupting holiday plans.
Data Backs Up the Post-Holiday Spike
A well-known University of Washington study examining filings from 2010-2015 found consistent peaks immediately after winter and summer holidays. Researchers attributed this to what they called a “domestic ritual calendar” — a predictable pattern in which couples delay filing during culturally significant family periods, then act once those emotionally charged seasons pass.
While the study used Washington state data, family lawyers across the country, including at our firm, continue to observe similar post-holiday patterns.
Google Trends data in recent years shows that searches for terms like “divorce lawyer,” “Colorado divorce,” and “file for divorce” reliably increase in early January. Search interest isn’t the same as filing, but it is a strong indicator that people begin researching their options once the holidays pass.
Deciding Whether January Is the Right Time for You to File for Divorce
No single month is the “right” month to begin a divorce. But if you spent the holiday season feeling overwhelmed, unseen or emotionally drained, January may be a natural time to explore your options. If you know you plan to file for divorce in the New Year, it’s a good idea to review our list of 10 things to do now if you’re considering a divorce after the holidays. These include:
- Getting your financial information in order.
- Learn the first steps in a Colorado divorce.
- Consider where you will go if you and your spouse own a house you plan to sell.
- Talk through your options with an attorney before the New Year.
Start the New Year with Clarity
If you’re considering divorce in 2026, you don’t have to navigate the process alone. Call Andersen Law PC at 720-922-3880 to request your free consultation. We’ll walk you through the initial steps of a Colorado divorce and help you determine the best path forward. You can also explore more divorce and family-law resources on our blog.
