Is there a better time to divorce?

Divorce can be a difficult and emotional decision that requires careful consideration. While there is no perfect time, there are several factors you should consider before deciding to end your marriage. In this article, we will explore when you may need to manage the end of a relationship, including waiting until the children have left home, until you are financially better off, or before being tempted into an affair.

Waiting until the children have left home

Many couples choose to wait until their children have left home before getting a divorce. This decision is often made to avoid disrupting the children’s lives and to minimise the impact of the divorce. While this is understandable, waiting until the children have left home is not always the best option. In fact, it may be better to get a divorce earlier on, because being witness to constant arguments has been shown to have an adverse effect on children. They are often more resilient than we give them credit for, and it is important for them to see their parents living a happy and fulfilled life, even if that means getting a divorce.

Waiting until you are financially better off

Another consideration when deciding on the best time to get divorced is your financial situation. If you are struggling financially, you may choose to wait until you are in a better position before taking the plunge. This may involve waiting until one or both of you have secured a better job or until you have paid off debts. However, it is important to note that financial issues are often a source of conflict in a marriage, and waiting until you are financially better off may not resolve the underlying issues that led to your relationship woes.

Before being tempted into an affair

Many couples choose to get a divorce before one or both partners are tempted into having an affair. While infidelity may not be the sole reason for a relationship breakdown, it can be a major factor that contributes to the decision to end a marriage. If one partner is tempted to have an affair, it may be a sign that the relationship is not fulfilling their needs. Rather than waiting until an affair occurs, it may be better to get a divorce earlier on and allow both partners to find happiness elsewhere.

When is the best time of year to get a divorce?

Some couples may choose to avoid certain times of year, such as holidays or special occasions, to minimise the impact of the divorce on their family and friends. Others may choose to wait until after a tax year or before a forthcoming inheritance to ensure that their financial situation is taken into account during the divorce proceedings.

There tend to be two spikes in the year when people decide to begin divorce proceedings. These are January and September, and it is no coincidence they fall after the Christmas and summer holiday period. In other words, after unavoidable time spent with our families. Many couples consider delaying proceedings until after Christmas to avoid upsetting the children, some wait until after exams have ended or after taking one last family holiday together.

While there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the best time to get divorced, ultimately the decision should be based on a couples individual circumstances and their readiness to move on from their marriage. It is important to approach the decision with care and consideration, seeking the advice of legal professionals who will be able to discuss the options available, including marriage counselling, mediation, separation, and divorce.