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A sudden spike in holiday divorce filings

On Behalf of | Dec 22, 2020 | Divorce |

While all Georgia marriages start with good intentions and with the hope to last their lifetime, the reality is that not all marriage will prevail. In some cases, ending the union is what is best for the couple and family. With the rate of divorce still close to 50%, divorces tend to occur more often during certain times of the year. However, due to the ongoing health crisis, divorce rates, trends and patterns have shifted.

Divorcing during the holidays

Typically, divorce rates around the holidays are low. This is often due to the couple or family wanting one last holiday season as a unit, or they hope to share the news of their intended divorce until after the New Year.  However, the present health situation has caused a shift, as it has put strain on many relationships. Thus, more and more couples are seeking to file for divorce before the year ends, causing a spike in divorce filings around the holidays.

Based on current data, there has been a 34% increase in inquires about divorce filings. While divorce lawyers say there is typically a lull in divorce filings from the Jewish New Year in September until the New Year, they are say they are gearing up for one of the busiest holiday seasons ever.

Holiday rush for divorce

Divorce attorneys are not the only ones that have been busy during the fall and winter holiday season. The increase and rush for divorces has caused professionals overseeing divorce agreements, financial portfolios and real estate to be especially busy. While the pandemic is to blame for the increase in filings, it is found that the fear that non-essential cases will be postponed again as the reason to rush these matters.

No matter the reason for a divorce filing or the time of year one files for dissolution, it is important to understand what goes into the process. Even if it appears to be a simple matter and the couple seeks to complete it quickly, one should fully understand their rights and options, as this not only protects their rights but also their interests as well.