Scotland braced for ‘busiest day of the year’ for divorce lawyers

Today, the first working Monday in January, is traditionally one of the busiest days of the year for family lawyers, with a sharp increase in people separating after the Christmas and New Year holidays.

Divorce statistics tend to show a steep rise in the number of people seeking advice from lawyers after what can be an intense period for families and couples.

Relationships that have already been experiencing difficulties can deteriorate with the increased stress, contact and financial pressures.

Ruth Aberdein, partner and head of the family law team at Aberdein Considine, said: “This can be a hugely difficult time of year for many people and tensions can build in a short period.

“Our experience is that a calm approach to disharmony is always advisable. It’s important not to make any hasty decisions when tensions are at their highest and it can often be beneficial to talk to someone outwith the family.

“In many cases, a return to the normal routine after the holidays can help to reduce the stress but of course, ultimately, separation and divorce may well be an inevitable outcome.”

Recent Scottish government statistics reveal that of the 77,721 civil law cases initiated in 2015-16, there were almost 9,000 divorces granted. Divorce and dissolution made up 77 per cent of all family cases.