New Study Shows Peak Seasons for Divorce

“Tis the season” they say, although usually it’s in regards to holiday cheer and other seasonal delight. Well, according to a new study from the University of Washington, apparently even divorce has a “season.” The study, based on divorce filings in Washington state between 2001 through 2015, found two very specific yearly peaks for divorce – March and August, with a high plateau during the months in between, and a significant drop in the fall months. See it for your own eyes, depicted in the graph below and aptly named “The Cat of Sadness”.

But why? According to Julie Brines, an associate sociology professor at UW who coauthored the study, the patterns mirror a “domestic ritual calendar.” If you’re contemplating divorce it, there are certain times of the year that just won’t cut it, i.e. when school is in session and especially around the holidays. “People don’t want to be accused by friends, family that they are heartless right before Christmas,” states family and divorce lawyer Miles Mason.

So when? Top times to execute the Big D typically fall in the summer months, around tax time, and the beginning of the new year with the “New Year, New Me” mentality. These indicators also reveal theoretical breaking points that could prompt a divorce. Take the holidays for example. An unhappy spouse may want to give it one last shot to see if some holiday magic puts spark back into the marriage. When that fails to happen, the new year comes along and the divorce trigger is pulled. Brines stated, “People tend to face the holidays with rising expectations, despite what disappointments they might have had in years past.”

No matter what time of year the decision is made to file for divorce, it’s never an easy one. If you are in need of an experienced and knowledgeable divorce attorney in Tampa, FL, please call the law office of Anton Garcia today. We are here to help you get through the process and represent your best interests.