Spring is often associated with new beginnings, fresh starts, and growth. As the cold, dreary winter months give way to warmer temperatures and blooming landscapes, many people feel a renewed sense of energy and optimism. This season is typically a time for cleaning out the old, embracing change, and starting anew. However, for many couples, spring may mark the end of their marriage. Instead of looking forward to a future together, they begin to contemplate a life apart.
According to a study by the University of Washington, divorce rates consistently peak in March and August. The researchers suggest that these spikes may be due to the “domestic ritual” effect, where couples tend to view the start of spring and the end of summer as natural transition points in their lives. They may see these times as opportunities to reassess their relationships and make significant changes.
Spring Cleaning In Your Relationship
Divorce rates tend to spike during this season, and there are several reasons why this phenomenon occurs. Just as many people feel compelled to clean out their homes and get organized during this season, some couples may view divorce as a way to declutter their lives and remove the negative aspects of their relationship. They may feel that starting the next chapter of their lives without the burden of an unhappy marriage is the best way to move forward.
Some experts suggest that increased daylight hours and improved weather can lead to heightened self-awareness and a desire for change. Couples struggling in marriage may see spring as a catalyst to take action and make a fresh start.
Others may have considered divorce for some time but waited until after the holiday season to avoid added stress and family tensions. The idea of announcing a divorce or initiating legal proceedings during the holidays can feel daunting and even cruel. Many couples choose to delay their decision to separate until after the New Year to avoid disrupting family plans, upsetting children, or adding to the already stressful nature of the season.
Another factor contributing to the rise in springtime divorces is the financial aspect. Many couples wait until they have filed their taxes and received their refunds before initiating the divorce process. This extra financial cushion can help cover the costs associated with divorce, such as legal fees and living expenses.
One last reason many couples divorce in the springtime is that many parents may wish to move their children to a new home after the school year ends in May. By initiating the divorce in the springtime, they can use the summer months to move and get settled in a new house and school district. This can make the transition a bit easier for children.
Considering Divorce in Arizona
If you’re considering a divorce in Arizona, understanding these factors and knowing your legal options can help you navigate this challenging time. Arizona is a no-fault divorce state, which means that either party can file for divorce without proving that the other spouse is at fault for the breakdown of the marriage. However, the divorce process can still be complex, especially when issues like property division, spousal maintenance, and child custody are involved.
One of the first steps in the divorce process is to talk to an experienced divorce lawyer who can provide guidance and support tailored to your unique situation. Your divorce attorney in Arizona can help you understand your rights, explore your options, and develop a strategy for achieving your goals. They can also assist with negotiating a settlement agreement or representing you in court if necessary.
An experienced divorce lawyer in Arizona can guide you on issues like property division, spousal maintenance, child custody, and child support. They can also help you explore alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation, often leading to a more amicable and cost-effective divorce.
Many people hesitate to contact a divorce lawyer because they fear it will escalate the conflict or make the divorce process more adversarial. However, consulting with an Arizona divorce attorney doesn’t necessarily mean you’re committed to a contentious divorce. In fact, a skilled attorney can often help you find creative solutions and reach a settlement that works for everyone involved.
Contact Our Arizona Divorce Attorneys Today
Divorce is a significant life decision that can have profound emotional, financial, and legal consequences for everyone involved. If divorce is the best path forward, you don’t have to navigate this difficult time alone.
With the right legal guidance and support, you can emerge from your divorce with a renewed sense of hope and possibility for the future. Contact Blake & Pulsifer today at 480-838-3000 or fill out our confidential contact form.
Marc was born and raised right here in the Valley of the Sun. After taking a degree in English Literature, summa cum laude, from Arizona State University, he decided to stay close to home and enrolled at ASU’s College of Law. Since 1998, Marc has practiced in the areas of business transactions, real estate, estate planning, and estate and trust administration. He prides himself on his client centered approach to the law. By focusing on the client’s values and goals first, Marc designs and implements practical legal solutions tailored to the client’s individual needs. Read more>