Filing for divorce is hard. It’s an emotionally draining time for everyone involved. And as such, it is a decision that should not be made hastily. But, if you find yourself in a situation where you feel divorce is inevitable, you may be wondering, when is the best time of the year to file? While there is no advantage, legally speaking, to filing in one month as compared to another, there are several benefits to filing for your divorce at the start of the new year in January. This blog provides an overview of some of the benefits of filing for your divorce in January.
First, one benefit of filing in January is taxes. Most divorces, but not all, can be completed within a year. Therefore, by filing in January, you have a better chance of being able to file your taxes as single or head of household for the following year. Not to mention, if you have children, there are many tax implications that comes with divorces. Such as, who gets to claim the child(ren) on a specific year. Divorces, in general, have many tax implications and filing in January may give you the best chance of planning for your financial future moving forward.
Second, another benefit is that filing for divorce in January avoids the major holidays. Most of us already experience some level of stress around the holidays with all the family and friend time. Filing in January avoids adding another layer of stress and drama around an already stressful time. If you have children, waiting until January allows them to enjoy the holiday time without worrying about the future. Furthermore, it avoids having to obtain some temporary order on custody for the holiday times, which again, is just another layer of stress. On the flip side, if you have children, filing in January gives you the best time to try to work out a custody schedule for the upcoming summer when the child(ren) are off for summer break.
Finally, it’s a new year and it’s a new chance to start over. Maybe you have been thinking about getting a divorce for a while, or maybe you are finally ready to get out of your bad situation, but whatever the reason may be, January offers you the best time to start fresh. Everyone is looking for New Years’ resolutions, maybe your resolution is taking that hard step and finally moving on. If so, January may be the month for you.
No matter when you file, divorce is certainly never an easy thing to do or go through. But, the right decisions are not always the easy decisions. If you find yourself seeking a divorce, January may be the best time to do so and start your new life. Divorces are emotional, and oftentimes complex. Obtaining skilled counsel is key to relieving some of the burden that comes with divorce. This blog was written by attorneys at Ciyou & Dixon, P.C. who handle divorces of all types throughout the state. It is written and posted for general educational purposes and is not to be construed as legal advice or solicitation for services. It is an advertisement.
