Extended Pandemic leading to more divorce-how to handle it?

Everyone is asking me "Is this January busier than most Januarys for divorce lawyers?" And local Fox News just interviewed me about this (click to watch). Usually January is the busiest month for divorce lawyers. Many people want to make a change and move forward in their life and that often means a change in marital status, and the same is true for January 2021. But while many thought the pandemic would keep families together, for some, it has had the opposite effect. While at first, many couples thought they could "tough it out" for a few months, the pandemic has lasted well beyond a few months. And now that we are into January 2021, the January phenomenon of increased divorce rates is here again, sort of on steroids.

Being “stuck” together for so long, has apparently made many people expedite their long term plans of maybe one day ending their relationship and going in another direction. And as always, come the new year, many put their thoughts into action. And once again our family law firm is being inundated with inquiries (we even hired our 15th family law attorney to keep up with demand). Yes it’s sad, but for many it was inevitable and the pandemic hastened things. Life is short, relationships are crucial, and those who dislike (or hate) their relationships realize now more than ever that if they are to be happy, they need a change. And yes some move too fast and jump to end a relationship without trying hard enough. But in times of quarantine, many feel like they have tried all they can and they just want out. Divorce, for many, is a way out. Whether we like it or not, people have a right to be happy and to determine for themselves what will make them happy. Often divorce does make people happier and sometimes it does not. But like with anything, most people would rather try to do something to improve their lives than regret doing nothing. And thus as always, requests for divorce consultations are up, and we will do our best to help. 

And my top suggestion? Talk. Be honest. And if divorce is what you or your spouse, or what you both choose, try to do it together and give more than you want and/or accept less than you want. Compromise by both is essential. And of course, lawyers are always available to run to court and seek what you want, but that should be a last option. You built this life and hopefully (and I know it takes two), the path forward can be less frictional than the tabloid headlines we all see too often. Agreements reached without court intervention often pave the way for future interaction, especially if you have children together. Good luck, and may this pandemic end sooner rather than later.