680 News: January: Spike in Divorce - Insights from Shulman & Partners

January is often associated with fresh starts and resolutions, but it is also a time when family law professionals see a noticeable rise in separation and divorce inquiries. In a segment with 680 News, Shulman & Partners LLP shared insight into why the beginning of the year consistently marks a peak period for Canadians seeking legal advice about ending relationships. The discussion highlighted how emotional strain during the holidays, combined with the psychological reset that comes with a new year, can prompt couples to reassess unhappy situations. For families with children, the pressure to preserve holiday stability often delays difficult decisions until January. 

One of the most significant drivers is the symbolic weight of January itself. The new year represents change, renewal, and forward momentum. For individuals who have endured prolonged marital strain, this period can feel like a natural moment to finally address unresolved issues. Rather than continuing in an unhappy relationship, many people view January as a clean break and an opportunity to reset their lives.

The holiday season also plays a critical role. Couples with children, in particular, often choose to postpone separation discussions in December to preserve family traditions and avoid disrupting celebrations. Holidays tend to emphasize togetherness, and parents may temporarily set aside conflict to create stability for their children. Once the holidays end, however, those underlying issues resurface, leading many couples to seek legal advice early in the new year.

From a practical standpoint, the segment noted that some law firms anticipate nearly double the volume of divorce related inquiries in January compared to other months. This pattern reinforces the importance of early planning, especially for families navigating separation, parenting arrangements, and financial disclosure under Ontario family law.

The discussion serves as a reminder that timing matters. Seeking legal guidance early can help individuals better understand their options, manage expectations, and approach separation in a structured and informed way.

Listen to the full 680 News segment here.

This media appearance is part of Shulman & Partners LLP’s ongoing contributions to Canadian family law discussions. Explore more of our media features in our In the Media archive.