The idea of “Divorce Day”—the first Monday in January—has been perpetuated by divorce lawyers and the media for years. It’s a convenient narrative designed to grab attention, but it doesn’t hold up to scrutiny. At Whatwouldajudgesay.com we encourage you to approach divorce on your own terms, not as part of a media-fuelled frenzy.
Feedback from our partners at Paradigm Family Law confirms this. The concept of “Divorce Day” is little more than a marketing ploy. While some law firms report an uptick in inquiries early in the year, there’s no hard evidence to suggest a significant spike in divorces being filed on this day.
So, where does the myth come from?
- Holiday stress: The festive season often highlights existing tensions in relationships.
- Fresh start mentality: January’s association with resolutions and new beginnings might prompt people to evaluate their marriages.
- Marketing tactics: The concept of “Divorce Day” serves as a convenient hook for law firms looking to drum up business.
Is January the Divorce Month? Not Exactly.
Research by Paradigm Family Law shows that July—not January—is the peak month for divorce-related searches in the UK. In fact, Private Eye highlighted this in an article titled Divorce Day Deception, referencing Paradigm’s findings.
Why July? Holidays are often a breaking point for struggling relationships. Couples spending extended periods together can highlight cracks that were easier to ignore in day-to-day life.
As Managing Partner Frank Arndt explains:
“Many families use their summer holidays as a last-ditch effort to save a relationship. While this works for some, for others it underscores that the relationship has run its course. The return home can often prompt a surge in divorce inquiries.”
International Trends: Divorce Peaks Differ Globally
Paradigm’s research also reveals that “Divorce Day” varies internationally:
- Germany: Valentine’s Day in February.
- France: May.
- Spain and Portugal: August.
The timing often coincides with major holidays or seasonal changes, which disrupt routines and bring underlying tensions to the surface.
Rethink the “Divorce Day” Narrative
While the idea of a single day for divorces may capture headlines, it oversimplifies the reality. Divorce is a deeply personal decision that can arise at any time, often shaped by unique circumstances rather than a media calendar.
Need Help?
If you’re rethinking your relationship, the process doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At What Would a Judge Say, we answer the specific question: “What would a judge say about how our assets would be divided in separation or divorce?”
Start with our free assessment—it’s designed to help you prepare and organise all your information securely in one place. From there, our fixed-fee service provides you with a judge-led, impartial opinion—delivered in just six weeks. No courtrooms, no long waits—just clarity and fairness.
Feel free to give us a call on 020 3951 0212 or email hello@whatwouldajudgesay.com or use get started to share your unique situation.