Expect More Divorces in NJ During Early Part of Year
When a couple files for divorce, it is often an extremely difficult decision. Depending on the nature of the couple’s relationship and the specific circumstances of the marriage, a couple might hold off on filing for divorce for as long as possible. As soon as the calendar flips and a new year begins, however, that same couple may find that the time is right to move forward with divorce proceedings.
At least that’s what statistics indicate. The months right after the holidays, specifically January and February, often see a surge in the number of people filing for divorce in New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. Couples are more likely to seek a divorce during these months for any number of reasons. A recent report by New Jersey 101.5 offered several motivating factors for couples to file for divorce at the beginning of the year:
· New Year’s Resolutions: The spouses in a struggling marriage see the end of the old year, and the start of the new year, as a chance to recommit to their relationship and try to make things work. However, it’s just as easy for the spouses to resolve to end the marriage and commit to the difficult decision to file for divorce.
· End-of-Year Bonuses: If your spouse is due a large end-of-year bonus from their job, it may behoove you to wait until the beginning of the following year to file for divorce. That way, the bonus is more likely to be classified as “marital property” when determining how assets will be divided in the divorce.
· Real Estate Market Considerations: If property division in a divorce requires the sale of the family home, the couple might look to sell the property during the spring when the real estate market tends to be better in New Jersey.
· Planning Ahead for a Summer Move: Spouses with kids who attend school may have to think twice about moving after a divorce. If one of the spouses is intent on moving once the divorce is complete, they may look to start the process at the beginning of the year so that the big move can occur during the summer when their kids are on break from school.
If you are thinking about filing for divorce, or if you are already involved in divorce proceedings, you need a knowledgeable family law and divorce attorney on your side throughout the process. Lois G. Schwartz, Esq., is an experienced, compassionate advocate for clients going through divorce in Cherry Hill and elsewhere in South Jersey. Contact her today to schedule an appointment to discuss your situation.