It’s an undisputable fact proven year after year. Without exception, the courts see more divorces filed in January than any other month. One might guess that it’s all about new beginnings.
For a moment, consider the irony of January’s placement in the calendar. According to statistical data, December represents the most popular month for engagements in the United States. That said, February follows January as the month for lovers. Again, it begs the question. Why is January dubbed as the divorce month?
It may be a matter of making New Year’s resolutions. Losing weight, saving money, and getting out of debt make it to the top of many lists. All things considered, your determination to become a better person might well include getting out of a bad marriage. Besides, you may feel that filing for divorce will help you successfully master your other resolutions as well.
In the meantime, some just can’t imagine disrupting the holidays by announcing their marriage is over. Consider the couple with young children eagerly awaiting Santa, who may lose their sense of wonder when they learn mom and dad plan to be apart for future celebrations.
Interesting enough, holiday stress may actually contribute to marital breaks. It could be the lack of funds in searching for perfect gifts. Once again, money is a big factor when it comes to divorce.
Of course, there’s also the issue of increased family time causing difficult situations. The National Resource Center on Domestic Violence disputes proof of increased domestic violence during the holiday months. However, numbers are of no consequence if it’s something that’s changed your outlook on staying married.
Filing for Divorce at the Start of the Year
Without question, a divorce is a life-changing event. Whether you are newlyweds or grandparents, you are looking at an end. Quite naturally, you may feel like a failure or even disgusted that you married your spouse in the first place. It’s also possible that you aren’t the one who wants the divorce.
Meanwhile, sometimes what seems devastating on first glance – may actually be the impetus for a new beginning. As hard as it might appear, you will need to gather your thoughts and learn what works best for you and your family. A law firm with experience in family law matters can help you weed through the process.
One of your first decisions will be to determine your grounds for filing for divorce. Under Tennessee law, you have a number of options as far as citing fault in seeking to end your marriage. Among them, are the following:
- Impotence
- Adultery
- Desertion
- Bigamy
- Incarceration
Once again, these are just some of the reasons cited in fault-based divorce complaints. For some, it makes more sense to choose a no-fault divorce. This is most often granted in cases based on irreconcilable differences between the parties.
Considerations in Divorce
Couples who have minor children or children with special needs often worry most about what a marital split will mean to the family. Assuredly, the courts consider the best interests of the children in awarding custody and parenting time.
Financial issues are also critical when it comes to divorce. Depending on the circumstances, this could include the following:
- Equitable distribution of property
- Alimony
- Child support
Your attorney will work with you to explain how calculations are made for support payments. Additionally, you may need expert opinions to determine property valuations.
Contact Us
At MHPS, we offer our clients experienced and compassionate representation. We know that going through a divorce can signal severe hardship. Contact us to learn how we can help you during this time – and on to your new beginning.
