Summary:
In a discussion with KRLD, Jennifer Hargrave of Hargrave Family Law explained the phenomenon of “Divorce Day,” which typically falls in early January. She noted that while it’s not an official day, there is a clear uptick in divorce filings during this time, often extending through February. This trend arises as couples, after delaying action over the holiday season for practical or emotional reasons, resume normal routines and face unresolved feelings.
The report explains why January divorce season earns the nickname divorce month January, detailing the January divorce spike and surge in post holiday divorce filings tied to the holiday divorce spike, tracing the new year divorce trend through data on divorce filings increase January, confirming that January is divorce month, advising on preparing for January divorce, and unpacking revealing divorce season statistics.
Jennifer emphasized that January is a practical time to begin divorce planning, particularly for those aiming to finalize transitions before summer. She highlighted that added stress varies depending on whether both spouses are aware of the impending divorce or if one spouse is still deliberating. For those uncertain about divorce, she recommended discernment counseling, a process that helps couples have constructive conversations about their relationship and decision-making. This approach can ease the divorce process if it becomes necessary.
The interview underscores the importance of thoughtful planning and open communication during such a pivotal life event.
Transcript
KRLD: Good afternoon, everyone. Before we left you on Friday, we mentioned that this past Sunday was “Dating Sunday.” Matchmakers say it’s one of the busiest days of the year for dating apps. On the flip side, today is “Divorce Day.” Jennifer Hargrave, with Hargrave Family Law here in DFW, joins us on KRLD. Jennifer, is “Divorce Day” a real thing?
Jennifer Hargrave: Yes, it is. We do see an uptick in divorces in January, and it often continues through February. It’s really more of a “divorce season.” Many people come out of the holidays feeling ready to take action. Often, they’ve seen the divorce coming for months but didn’t want to start the process during the holiday season.
There’s never a perfect time for a divorce, but there are definitely worse times—like when in-laws are staying at your house, or you’re juggling family traditions, college kids visiting, and other holiday events. Once we get back to normal routines in January, those unresolved feelings tend to resurface. This makes it a logical time to begin the divorce planning process, especially for those who want transitions finalized by summer.
KRLD: How much added stress does this bring to couples after the holidays?
Jennifer Hargrave: It depends. Does the couple both know about the divorce, or is it just one spouse? In many cases, one spouse has been sitting with these feelings for a long time, uncertain about whether they really want to proceed. Something over the holidays might solidify their decision.
If both spouses are aware, it can certainly be uncomfortable, especially if they’re living together but delaying action. For those who aren’t entirely sure, we often recommend something called discernment counseling. It’s a way to have an honest conversation with your spouse about your thoughts on divorce. Discernment counseling is designed for people still in the decision-making phase.
Even for those certain about moving forward, discernment counseling provides a healthy platform to start the conversation constructively. This can help make the divorce process smoother and less contentious.
KRLD: Thank you, Jennifer. That’s Jennifer Hargrave with Hargrave Family Law. You can find our full conversation with her at KRLD.
Hargrave Family Law – Compassionate Dallas Divorce Lawyers
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Let us be your advocates during this challenging time. Contact the non-adversarial Dallas divorce lawyers at Hargrave Family Law today for the legal assistance you need to navigate child abandonment and related family law matters. Request a complimentary case evaluation. Together, we can work towards protecting the happiness and well-being of your family.
Hargrave Family Law was founded by compassionate Dallas divorce lawyer Jennifer Hargrave.
Compassionate Dallas Divorce Attorney, Jennifer Hargrave
Dallas Divorce Resources
- Divorce Month – January Surge
- Divorce Trends (Podcast)
- Cost of Divorce & How to Reduce It
- Checklist: Hiring a Family‑Law Attorney
- Texas Divorce Checklist (Download)
- Three Myths About Divorce
- Divorce Without Destruction – Smart Strategies
- Divorce Negotiation Strategies (Podcast)
- Find a Dallas Divorce Lawyer
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Hargrave Family Law – Compassionate Dallas Divorce Lawyers
Hargrave Family Law was founded by Dallas divorce lawyer Jennifer Hargrave with a strong mission in mind. Using non-adversarial techniques, our firm advocates for you during this challenging life transition in a way that helps you protect what matters most. Reach out to our team of compassionate Dallas divorce lawyers at Hargrave Family Law for the support you need to navigate divorce and other family law matters. We offer a complimentary case evaluation to start your journey with us. Together, we will work towards safeguarding the happiness and well-being of your family, allowing you to write your next chapter with hope.
