Divorce: A New Year’s Resolution

While no one can predict the future, it is safe to guess that the New Year will bring change: new opportunities, new friends, new diets, and possibly a divorce. Divorce is a common New Year’s resolution.

According to Kyung (Kathryn) Dickerson, principal at SmolenPlevy, a number of people begin the process of divorce in January and February — mainly because people do not want the emotional turmoil of divorce proceedings in the middle of the holidays. “They’ve survived the holiday season,” said Dickerson in a FOX5 interview, “they’ve maintained the image of a family, they’ve maintained that one last good Christmas for their children, and now they’re ready to move forward.” Dickerson adds that there are also more practical reasons for getting a divorce early in the year, as January also means receiving end-of-the-year tax forms, making it “a great time to learn what you’re holding, what you owe and how you’re going to consider dividing those things up should a divorce happen.”

Dickerson also has some suggestions for people considering a divorce. When it comes to dividing up physical possessions, Dickerson recommended focusing on things with emotional value, rather than “[spending] thousands of dollars arguing over the lamp.” She also emphasized being clear with your attorney as to what you want your relationship with your spouse after the divorce to be like, as not everyone separating wants to take a “scorched earth approach”. Dickerson also recommends consulting with an attorney even if you don’t want a divorce but think your spouse may want one, so you can be better prepared for the process.