The Gray Divorce Podcast

The January Effect - Resolving to Divorce

Andrew Hatherley Episode 85

Why is January called “Divorce Month? Why do divorce filings spike in the new year? 

Andrew explains that marriages don’t suddenly fail in January—rather, many couples postpone action until the holidays are over. Contributing factors include: 

  • A “holiday truce” to avoid disrupting family traditions 
  • Financial stress from travel, gifts, and year-end expenses 
  • Increased time together that can intensify existing tensions 

To avoid a short-lived or poorly executed divorce strategy, he emphasizes the importance of education, preparation, and professional guidance rather than emotional urgency.  

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