Are you planning to get a divorce in the New Year? Research has found that you are not alone. Studies have shown that internet searches for “divorce” peak in January. https://www.fatherly.com/life/why-does-divorce-spike-in-january
Divorce filings peak in March and August, suggesting that filing for divorce often happens after the winter and summer holidays. The holiday pause could motivate a desire for a new start in the new year.
Why do people choose to get a divorce in the new year? The following are a few factors:
Getting a divorce after the holidays to preserve seasonal time with family
People often opt for divorce in the new year because it allows them to preserve their holiday traditions and protect children’s sense of security. Protecting children in divorce is often a matter of presenting a united front. Planning is key to this approach and couples who can work together in divorce mediation or collaborative divorce can preserve a sense of stability for their children while they plan their divorce.
The tax impact of divorce
The peak in March filings could indicate that tax season is motivating people to think about their finances. The sooner you file, the sooner you can start the process of separating your finances. To file taxes separately your divorce needs to be final in the previous year. There may be some benefits to filing as married during the year you get divorced and filing separately thereafter. You should carefully discuss the tax impacts of divorce with your divorce attorney. The tax impacts of alimony and sharing custody of a dependent with your spouse will impact your tax obligations significantly. Your divorce negotiations should take these factors into account.
Managing the divorce timeline
A Massachusetts divorce can take up to 6 months. It can take 120 days to finalize your divorce after the initial hearing and dealing with the paperwork and planning adds additional time. The sooner you contact your divorce attorney, the more likely it is that you can turn your divorce around quickly.
If you have any questions about getting a divorce in the new year, the attorneys at Amaral & Associates, P.C. can guide you in your next steps. If you want an efficient and conflict-free divorce, our firm offers divorce mediation services with experienced divorce attorney mediators who can help you manage your divorce transition in a stress-free way. Our Family Law and Estate planning Center is a one stop shop for information and guidance about tax, child custody and the financial impacts of divorce. Please contact us today to learn more.
You must be logged in to post a comment.