Did you know that up to 50 percent of marriages end in divorce? The United States has the 6th highest divorce rate in the world. Even more shocking is that the global pandemic triggered a nearly 21 percent increase in divorce agreements from the previous year.
How did Georgia couples fair? According to divorce statistics, Georgia ranks just below the national average for divorce, with an average divorce rate of 11%.
Couples in Georgia have many things to consider before filing for divorce. One of the things they need to consider is when to file. Is putting off your divorce the best move, or should you file quickly? Should you consider filing before or after the holidays?
Don’t Wait Until After the Holidays to Divorce
Choosing to end your marriage is a painful and difficult decision that most couples do not make lightly. When there is little hope of reconciliation, a couple may know that divorce is inevitable. However, with the holidays rapidly approaching, is it best to wait until after the holidays to file for divorce?
There is no one right answer to this question, and no perfect time to file for divorce. However, couples filing for divorce may not want to wait until after the holidays.
If you are considering a divorce before the holidays, here are some ideas to consider:
- Fighting Ruins the Holidays. Couples who fight excessively can begin to have more public fights. This can ruin the holidays for their families, as well as their children. Choosing to divorce before the holidays can put some much-needed distance between you and your spouse, which can actually make the holidays more pleasant for everyone.
- You and Your Children Deserve Protection. If your spouse is verbally or physically abusive, now is the time to get out. Do not wait. Waiting could put the health and safety of you and your children in jeopardy.
- You Can Escape Harmful Behavior. If your spouse engages in harmful behaviors, such as drug use or alcohol abuse, divorce can help you escape from the effects of such dangerous behaviors. Putting off divorce until after the holidays may be dangerous for you and your loved ones.
- Prevent Destruction of Property. Sometimes when couples are on the brink of divorce, one spouse will act out in an attempt to punish the other. This might include destroying valuable property or cherished family heirlooms. The sooner you can file for divorce, the better your chances of protecting your property.
- Stop Increasing Debts. Filing for a divorce can begin to put a halt on increasing debts in marriage. The longer you are married, the more you will be responsible for the debts that pile up during your marriage.
- Prevent Spouse From Hiding Assets. Waiting to file for divorce can give your spouse more time to hide assets. The sooner you can file for divorce, the sooner you can accurately gauge marital assets and accounts.
When is the Right Time to File for Divorce?
During a divorce, tensions will run high. Your life may get upended, and your children upset with the new changes. However, putting off a divorce doesn’t make it easier – it just delays the inevitable.
If you believe that there is a chance for reconciliation, you might want to consider waiting longer to file for a divorce. However, if you know that reconciliation is not an option, there may be no reason to delay filing.
When making the decision to file for divorce, it is important to talk to an experienced Atlanta divorce attorney. As you and your lawyer discuss your impending divorce, your attorney can help you decide the best time to file. When doing this, they will take many things into consideration, including: Prenup agreements, Marital property, Children or dependents, Financial standings, Owning a business and Filing taxes.
After reviewing this information, you and your attorney can determine the right timing for you and your family. Finances, as well as emotional concerns, will play a huge role in when you file for divorce.
Call Our Experienced Atlanta Family Law Attorneys
If you are considering a divorce this holiday season, don’t delay. At Hobson & Hobson, P.C., our Georgia divorce attorneys will meet with you to discuss the best timing for your divorce. We understand that you want a swift and amicable resolution. As such, our law firm will work quickly to help you protect what you value most during the divorce process.
Call us today at (770) 284-6153 or fill out our confidential contact form. We can set up a consultation, so you can review all your legal options.
Attorney Sarah Hobson at Hobson and Hobson, P.C. are powerful advocates for those who fight for better futures for those going through divorce and custody law matters.