February 8, 2016

Resolution research challenges ‘Divorce Day’ claims

It has long been thought that the day sees a spike in enquiries to family lawyers from couples who are looking to separate, reputedly because of rows during the festive period or a renewed desire for a fresh start.

But while Resolution has confirmed that more people are likely to seek out information on the internet at the start of a new year, a survey of members suggests that the rise in calls to solicitors may in fact be overstated.

Resolution’s chair, Jo Edwards, said: “We do know that January is the time when online searches for information about divorce and separation reach their peak.

“The festive season can be difficult for many families, fraught as it is with expectations and obligations; and indeed many have already decided before Christmas that they wish to take steps to separate, but hold off doing so until the New Year for the sake of the family.

“But to dub [it] ‘Divorce Day’ trivialises the very painful and difficult decisions couples make when they separate. In fact, 82 per cent of Resolution members polled reported that they did not see any immediate spike in new cases or enquiries at the beginning of 2015.”

Resolution said this suggests that most people are initially looking for information, rather than taking the immediate decision to file for divorce.

Royds’ family law team offer friendly, pragmatic advice at every stage of the divorce process. For further information on the services we provide please visit or contact Patrick Hart.

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