January has long been recognised as a time when many people begin to reassess their personal circumstances, and for some couples this leads to difficult decisions about their relationship. Family law solicitors often see a noticeable increase in divorce and separation enquiries in the first weeks of the new year, with many people finally taking action after months of quiet reflection.
A recent article in the Daily Mail highlighted that the first Monday of January, often referred to as ‘Divorce Day’, regularly sees a significant rise in divorce enquiries. Many couples delay acting until after the festive season, choosing to focus on family commitments and their children over Christmas before addressing relationship concerns once the new year begins.
For those experiencing uncertainty or strain in their relationship, this time of year can feel like both an ending and a new beginning.
Why is January sometimes a turning point for separation?
Post-holiday reflection and new beginnings:
The festive season can be a time of intense family togetherness, obligations and expectation. After weeks of juggling extended family commitments and the pressures of holiday planning, some couples find that underlying relationship tensions become harder to ignore. Once the holidays are over and routines resume, individuals may feel ready to take practical steps they’ve been contemplating for some time.
January also symbolises a fresh start for many people. Just as individuals make New Year’s resolutions about health, career and lifestyle, couples may feel more ready to reassess their personal relationships at this time.
Financial and emotional pressures
Financial stress plays a significant role in relationship breakdown. According to industry polls, many couples delay separating until they feel more secure financially, particularly after the cost pressures of Christmas and rising living costs. in early January, when New Year bills are now due and people review their financial situation for the year ahead, unresolved issues can feel harder to manage.
These realities echo what family lawyers see year after year: money worries are often both a cause of relationship strain and a barrier to starting the legal process.
‘Divorce month’ and the first Monday back
Legal professionals regularly report that divorce enquiries surge in January compared with other months. In fact, some studies suggest enquiries can be 25 per cent higher in early January than at other times of the year. * Practical timing also plays a role - many people delay initiating proceedings until after the holidays to avoid disrupting family celebrations or worrying children during Christmas.
Later-life and ‘grey’ divorce trends
While younger couples and those with children often feature prominently in discussions about separation, there is also a growing trend of couples deciding to part ways later in life. Often referred to as ‘grey divorce’, this term describes divorce among people aged 50 and over who are choosing to end long-term marriages.
There are several reasons this can happen, including changes in personal goals after children leave home, greater financial independence later in life, shifting priorities and a broader cultural acceptance of divorce even after decades together. However, separating later in life can bring its own legal and financial complexities, particularly around pensions, property, savings and retirement planning - areas that require careful consideration and expert advice.
Why legal advice is essential
Regardless of age, divorce involves more than just ending a marriage. It can raise many legal and financial questions, including:
Research also highlights that divorce can result in a significant drop in income, particularly later in life, where individuals may be closer to retirement and have fewer opportunities to rebuild savings quickly.
Early planning is essential to ensure these issues are handled carefully and fairly.
The emotional and practical challenges of divorce
Divorce is not just a legal process. It is often accompanied by emotional upheaval, uncertainty and difficult conversations. Alongside this, there are practical decisions to be made about finances, property, children and future living arrangements.
Understanding your personal legal position can provide reassurance at a time when things may feel overwhelming. Having clear advice allows you to plan ahead, avoid unnecessary conflict and make informed choices that protect your long-term interests.
How Coles Miller can support you
At Coles Miller, our Family Law team understands that no two situations are the same. We provide clear, compassionate and practical advice, tailored to your individual circumstances.
Whether you are exploring separation for the first time, concerned about financial arrangements, or seeking guidance on mediation or court proceedings, we are here to help. Our aim is to support you through the process with sensitivity, professionalism while focusing on achieving the best possible outcome for you and your family.
Our highly experienced divorce and family solicitors have the legal expertise needed to help you secure the future of your children and safeguard your property and financial assets.
Taking the first step
If you have been considering separation or divorce and are looking for clarity as the new year begins, speaking to an experienced family law solicitor can help you understand your options and move forward with confidence.
Contact Richard Perrins, Head of Family Department to arrange a confidential consultation.
Richard is an experienced Family Law Solicitor having qualified in 2009. He trained locally in Poole before moving to a specialist niche fertility law firm, expanding his knowledge of family law even further in a complex area. Richard became Partner at Coles Miller in May 2017 and is Head of the Family Department.
Richard has experience in handling all aspects of when a relationship breaks down including divorce, separation between unmarried couples and financial matters. Richard also has specialist experience in cases involving same-sex couples including civil partnership dissolution and cases involving children conceived through donor conception.
*Law News: https://www.lawnews.co.uk/