No greeting cards, heartwarming Hallmark movies, or paid holidays are celebrated for this, but for family law and divorce mediation professionals, January is often called “Divorce Month.” Why? The first 31 days of the year consistently spike in divorce inquiries and court filings. After the holiday chaos settles, and as people embrace New Year’s resolutions, many couples start fresh—sometimes by ending their marriages. With Florida’s divorce rate ranking sixth in the United States, many Floridians will start the new year with this approach.

For many, the holiday season magnifies marital struggles. Family gatherings, financial stress, and continued unmet expectations can make years of conflict harder to ignore. Once the holidays end and reality sets in, some couples realize that staying in an unhappy marriage no longer aligns with their goals or well-being. January also offers a symbolic fresh start. The promise of a new year inspires people to take charge of their lives, whether pursuing fitness goals, changing careers, or ending toxic relationships. It is one thing if you decide to take control of ending your marriage, but what if you weren’t expecting this to be a part of your new year? Here are a few tips on navigating the process if the divorce was not on your January 2025 to-do list.