Why January and August are Popular Months for Divorce in Texas [2024]

If you’ve been considering divorce lately, you are not alone. January and February are popular months for divorce inquiries and filings in Texas. In fact, January has been dubbed “Divorce Month.” There are a number of reasons why people choose to wait until the beginning of the year to end their marriages.

While the decision to divorce can be made at any time of year, there are certain months that see a higher number of divorce filings. In this article, we’ll explore the most popular months for divorce in Texas and why these trends may occur.

The Most Popular Months for Divorce in Texas

According to research, the most popular months for divorce filings in Texas are January and August. January sees a spike in divorce filings after the holiday season, while August sees a surge in filings before the start of the school year.

Why are January and August Popular Months for Divorce?

There are several reasons why January and August may be popular months for divorce filings in Texas. In January, couples may be more likely to file for divorce after the holiday season. The holiday season can be a stressful time for couples, and the added pressure of family gatherings and gift-giving can exacerbate existing issues. Once the holidays are over, couples may feel more motivated to start the divorce process.

In August, couples may be more likely to file for divorce before the start of the school year. This timing allows children to start the school year with some stability, and gives parents time to adjust to new routines before the school year begins.

It’s worth noting that while January and August are popular months for divorce filings, divorces can occur at any time of year. Some couples may choose to file for divorce during other months for a variety of reasons.

What to Consider When Filing for Divorce

If you’re considering filing for divorce in Texas, it’s important to understand the process and your options. Working with an experienced family law attorney can help ensure that your rights and interests are protected throughout the divorce process.

In Texas, divorce proceedings can be complex, with a range of issues to consider, including property division, child custody, and spousal support. An attorney can help you navigate these issues and develop a strategy that works for your unique situation.

It’s also important to understand the emotional toll that divorce can take on you and your family. Seeking support from family, friends, or a therapist can be helpful during this difficult time.

Here’s a look at some of the most common reasons why January and August are popular months for divorce in Texas.

1. The Holidays Are Over: The holidays are a difficult time for many couples considering divorce. In fact, spouses often choose to stay together until after the holidays to avoid the stress, pain, and disruption that comes with filing for divorce during a season of celebration. After all, who wants to ruin Christmas for the kids? Once the New Year rolls around, couples are often more ready to finally part ways for good.
   
   
2. New Year’s Resolutions: Many individuals want to start the new year with a fresh start, and for some, that means ending their marriage. It is often easier for some people to end a marriage and make a clean break when the year is changing. People simply don’t want to go into a new year as miserable as they were the last year. The family law attorneys at Varghese Summersett Family Law Group can ensure that your New Year’s resolution of ending your marriage is executed properly.
   
   
3. Tax Implications: January and even February are also popular months for divorce because of potential tax benefits. A couple’s marital status on December 31 determines their tax filing status for the following year. So If you prefer to file jointly, waiting until the new year can be beneficial. Conversely, by filing in January or February, there is a good chance the divorce will be finalized by the end of the year. At that time, you can file as single or head of household on your taxes.
   
   
4. Financial Readiness: January and February are also popular months for divorce because, for many, it marks the end of the holiday spending season. After all the gifts and festivities, many individuals don’t have much left over in their bank accounts. The new year often signals a time to catch up on bills and get finances in order before stepping out on their own.
   
   
5. Good Timing: In Texas, there is a mandatory 60-day waiting period from the time you file for divorce until it is finalized, under 6.702 of the Texas Family Code. Filing for divorce at the start of a new year gives spouses ample time to finalize their divorce before the next big event or holiday rolls around. For example, if the divorce is uncontested, couples can possibly be on the other side of it before spring break or summer vacation.
   
   
6. Efficient Courts: January and February are also popular months for divorce because all hands are on deck at the courthouse. During the holidays, family courts tend to slow down, but the new year brings refreshed judges and court staff to handle the greater caseload. This is beneficial for couples who want a quick, efficient divorce.
   
   
7. Kids are Back in School: Many couples choose January and February to file for divorce because their kids are back in school after the holiday break. This allows the parents to speak and meet with attorneys and attend court if necessary without disrupting their children’s school day or routine. It also gives the parents time in the day to process and check their emotions before the children get home from school. As for the kids, being back in school distracts them from the stress of their parent’s divorce and provides some sense of normalcy.
   
   

The attorneys at Varghese Summersett Family Law Group understand the emotional and financial strain that comes with filing for divorce. We are dedicated to providing the best legal advice and guidance during this difficult time in your life – whether that is at the beginning of the year or another time. We are here to help you make the best decision for you and your family.

Ready to file for divorce? Contact Us.

Ultimately, the decision to file for divorce is a very personal one and should be made based on your individual situation. But if you are considering filing for divorce in Texas, the beginning of the year may be a good time to take the next step and start a new chapter in your life.

Our Fort Worth family law attorneys can help you understand your options and handle all necessary legal paperwork and proceedings. We’ll work with you every step of the way to make this process as seamless and stress-free as possible. Contact the Varghese Summersett Family Law Group today at 817-900-3220 to schedule a consultation with an experienced family law attorney.

The first step in the divorce process, after contacting Varghese Summersett Family Law Group, will be to file an original petition for divorce. Family law attorney Turner Thornton explains this document and how it gets the ball rolling in this video.