As the summer heat sets in, so does the pressure for couples who are considering divorce. A University of Washington study that analyzed divorce filings between 2001 and 2015 found that August is one of the peak months in which couples initiate divorce proceedings.
Couples may decide to divorce during the summer months for a variety of reasons. For some, the long days and warm weather are a reminder of what they once had with their spouse and how much has changed. For others, the summer months are a time when kids are out of school and there is more free time to focus on the divorce process. Still, others find that the stress of summertime travel and family gatherings makes it impossible to stay in a marriage that is already strained.
Child Custody Considerations: Waiting Until the End of the School Year
For couples with children, the end of the school year brings a sense of finality, and with it, the realization that their marriage may not make it through another school year. One of the most common reasons why parents get divorced during the summer is related to co-parenting and child custody schedules. Couples with children may view the end of the school year as a good time to initiate new custody arrangements so that children are comfortable with the schedule before they head back to school in the fall.
The Summer Months Can Be a Time for Introspection
For couples who have been considering divorce for some time, summertime can be a unique opportunity to make changes and start anew. The summer months can provide more free time for introspection and decision-making, as well as space and distance from daily routines. With children out of school and more flexible schedules, couples may feel less pressure to maintain appearances or to stay together for the sake of their children.
Moreover, the summer months can be a good opportunity for couples to reevaluate their priorities and goals. They may have more time to spend together as a family, engage in new activities, or take vacations. Alternatively, they might find that they are not enjoying these moments together or that they have different ideas about how to spend their time. This newfound clarity can encourage couples to identify underlying issues in their relationship or marriage and take action.
Considering a Summer Divorce? Contact an Experienced Michigan Divorce Attorney
Whatever the reason, couples who choose to divorce during the summer months often do so because they feel like they have reached their breaking point. If you are considering divorce, it is important to speak with an experienced attorney who can help you understand your rights and options under the law.
