A new study has revealed that one in five couples consider separation in January due to the pressure created over the Christmas period.
According to reports couples separating or filing for divorce in January are 27% higher than the average of divorces seen throughout the rest of year in the UK. Such reports have led the media to refer to January as Divorce Month with the first working day of the month often being the busiest day of the year for solicitors with many people filing for divorce.
Reasons for Increase in Divorce in January
There are a number of reasons for the rise in the number of divorces seen in January according to experts. It is perhaps natural that people do not want to go through a divorce, which can often be painful, around the festive period, thus some people wait and delay the process for as long as possible, often opting to have one last Christmas together before deciding to begin proceedings. Another factor according to some is the fact that the New Year offers the perfect opportunity for couples opting to split up.
On the other hand, for many people, the Christmas period is the last resort to try and save the relationship with some people hoping that more time together will make the relationship last.
However, the stress of Christmas can often damage the relationship further.
If a couple has been experiencing difficulties in their relationship, then spending time with each other and their children for the first time in months can make them realise the extent of their problems. The pressure of having cousins, parents-in-law and friends visit or stay can also magnify relationship problems.
Obtaining a Divorce: Scotland
There are two grounds for divorce that can be cited if you wish to begin divorce proceedings in Scotland. These are:
- the marriage has broken down irretrievably
- one of the partners to the marriage has an interim gender recognition certificate.
If you are getting divorced because your marriage has broken down irretrievably you or your partner will have to show that the marriage no longer exists on a permanent basis. It is possible to show that the relationship has broken down by citing the reasons below.
- Your partner has behaved unreasonably
- Adultery
- You’ve lived apart for at least one year and you both agree to the divorce
- You’ve lived apart for at least two years but one of you doesn’t agree to the divorce.
Unreasonable behaviour can include mental or physical cruelty, including violence or abuse, and less obvious things like dominating a partner, not letting the partner leave the home or speak to neighbours and friends or refusing to pay for housekeep
Getting a Divorce Glasgow: Contact Us
We understand that going through a divorce can be a stressful and difficult time for all of those involved, however, we aim to make the process as simple and stress-free as possible.
If you wish to get a divorce or are considering beginning proceedings, contact our team of expert solicitors today using our online contact form.
