Divorce filings in Florida follow a predictable seasonal pattern — and spring is consistently the peak. Research shows filings increase 25–30% between February and April, as couples who held on through the holiday season finally decide to take action. If you’re thinking about filing this spring, you’re not alone. Understanding why this trend happens each year — and what’s changed in 2026 — can help bring some clarity to a difficult decision. If you’re ready to explore your options, a divorce attorney in Orlando can walk you through the process from start to finish.
1. A Fresh Start After the Holidays
Many couples put off major life changes during the holiday season. Family gatherings, travel, and financial commitments often encourage people to delay filing for divorce. However, once the new year begins, reality sets in. By the time spring arrives, people feel ready to take action.
Common reasons couples wait until spring to file for divorce include:
- The desire to give their marriage one last chance over the holidays
- Financial recovery after holiday spending
- A need for clarity before making a life-altering decision
January is often when people begin researching their options quietly — reading articles, understanding the process, and consulting with friends. By February and March, they’re ready to make the call. If you’re ready to move forward, an Orlando divorce lawyer can guide you through the legal steps to ensure a smooth transition.
2. Tax Season Can Influence Divorce Decisions
Finances play a major role in divorce, and tax season can be a turning point for many couples. Once tax returns are filed, individuals have a clearer picture of their financial situation — joint income, shared assets, and outstanding debt — making it easier to plan for life after divorce.
Filing taxes jointly for the last time can also be a strategic move. Once that’s done, many spouses feel prepared to initiate divorce proceedings. Timing matters here: filing before the tax deadline means you may still be eligible to file jointly for the prior year, which is often financially advantageous. That said, the right timing depends on your specific situation and should be discussed with both an attorney and a tax professional.
If you’re unsure how assets, debts, or alimony could factor into your divorce, an experienced family law attorney in Orlando can help you think through the financial implications before you file.
3. Warmer Weather Can Bring New Perspectives
Spring is often associated with renewal and change. The longer days and warmer weather encourage people to reflect on their happiness and their future. If someone has been struggling in an unhappy marriage, spring can feel like the right season to finally make a decision.
Additionally, the idea of starting fresh before summer can be compelling. Many individuals see spring as an opportunity to reclaim their independence before vacations, social events, and new experiences arrive. If you’re thinking about making a change, speaking with a divorce lawyer in Orlando can help you understand your rights and options.
4. Parenting Considerations and School Schedules
For parents, spring can feel like a practical window to begin the separation process. With the school year winding down, many couples see summer break as a less disruptive transition period for their children. This timing allows families to settle custody arrangements and parenting plans before the new school year begins in the fall.
Florida’s family courts prioritize the best interests of the child, and that includes stability in their daily routines. Planning ahead — including working out timesharing schedules before school starts — gives families the best chance at a smooth adjustment. If you have children, an Orlando child custody lawyer can help ensure that parenting plans, visitation schedules, and child support agreements are structured in a way that works best for your family.
What’s Different About Divorce in 2026
Florida family law has seen meaningful changes in recent years, and anyone filing for divorce in 2026 should be aware of what’s new.
Florida’s 50/50 Timesharing Presumption Is Now in Effect
One of the most significant shifts in recent Florida family law is the 50/50 timesharing presumption. Florida courts now begin with the assumption that equal timesharing between both parents is in the best interest of the child. This doesn’t mean 50/50 is guaranteed in every case — but it does shift the burden of proof for any parent seeking a different arrangement. If you’re a parent considering divorce this spring, understanding how this law applies to your situation is essential before you file.
Updated Child Support Guidelines
Florida’s child support calculation guidelines have also been updated. How support is calculated — including income considerations, healthcare, and childcare costs — can directly affect what you pay or receive. An experienced attorney can walk you through the updated Florida child support calculations and what they mean for your family’s specific circumstances.
The Rise of AI in Divorce Proceedings
More people than ever are turning to AI tools for legal guidance — including questions about divorce. While AI can be a helpful starting point for general research, it cannot replace qualified legal counsel. Florida family law involves nuance that no chatbot can replicate, and the decisions you make during a divorce have long-term consequences for your finances, your children, and your future.
Martell Family Law Is Growing in 2026
Martell Family Law is expanding its team this year — not by branching into new practice areas, but by deepening expertise in family law. That means more bandwidth, faster response times, and the same focused, experienced representation Central Florida families have come to expect.
Spring Is When Action Happens — Here’s Your Next Step
If you’ve been thinking about this for months, spring might be the season you stop researching and start moving. You don’t have to have everything figured out before your first conversation with an attorney. Most people walk into a consultation with questions, not answers — and that’s exactly what the consultation is for.
At Martell Family Law, we handle divorce cases with the seriousness and compassion they deserve. Josh Martell is a Florida Supreme Court Qualified Arbitrator with over a decade of litigation experience — which means he can fight for you in court or help you find a faster resolution through alternative dispute resolution when that’s the better path.
Ready to understand what the process looks like? Start there — then give us a call.
Contact Martell Family Law today to schedule a confidential consultation. We serve families throughout Central Florida from our office at 618 E. South Street in downtown Orlando.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do more people file for divorce in spring?
Research consistently shows divorce filings increase 25–30% between February and April. Many couples decide to stay together through the holidays for their children or family appearances, then begin the process once the new year settles. Tax season also forces couples to confront shared financial realities, which can be the final catalyst.
Is January really “Divorce Month” in Florida?
January gets the nickname, but the actual filing spike happens in February and March in Florida. January is when most people start researching attorneys and understanding their options. By February, they’re ready to take action — which is exactly why having a consultation early matters.
How long does a divorce take in Florida?
Florida requires a minimum 20-day waiting period after filing, but most contested divorces take 6–12 months. Uncontested divorces with full agreement can be finalized in as little as 4–6 weeks. The timeline depends heavily on whether both parties can agree on custody, support, and property division.
Should I wait until after tax season to file for divorce?
It depends on your situation. Filing before taxes are due means you may still file jointly for the previous year, which is often financially advantageous. However, the timing should be discussed with both your attorney and a tax professional. At Martell Family Law, we help clients think through these practical considerations before filing.
How does Florida’s new 50/50 timesharing law affect spring divorce filings?
Florida courts now presume that equal timesharing between both parents is in the child’s best interest. This changes how custody negotiations begin — both parents start from a position of equal footing, and any deviation from 50/50 must be justified. If you’re a parent planning to file this spring, this is one of the most important things to discuss with your attorney before taking any action.
What should I do if I’m thinking about divorce but not ready to file?
Start with a confidential consultation. You don’t have to be ready to file — understanding your rights, the process, and what to expect gives you the information you need to make the best decision for your family on your own timeline.
