Frigid New Year, Frigid Marriages

The New Year in eastern North Carolina has been uncharacteristically frozen. This time of year tends to break the ice on frozen marriages. Whether it's anger over a contentious Christmas, someone drank too much on New Year's Eve, or people who have been putting off separation, January is the big break-up time.

2010 promises to be a particularly big year for divorcing couples. The economy is showing a few signs of recovery. This will add couples who have been putting off separation due to financial restraints. But if you're going to separate, are you ready? Ask yourself these questions:

1. Have you gotten a separate mailbox?
2. Have you opened a separate bank account?
3. Assuming you have opened said account, have you notified your HR department to update your direct deposit information?
4. Do you have a plan for your children?
5. Have you got another place to live?
6. What if you and your soon-to-be ex can't agree on things?

Also, be wary of your soon-to-be ex leaving you now, particularly if he or she is better off financially. I foresee wealthier spouses choosing to separate before the economy recovers much as it will soften the blow to their individual bottom lines. This is because they can anticipate splitting a smaller pie and then take their share into the recovery and grow it for themselves. This may seem beneficial to wealthier spouses than waiting for the economy to recover and dividing up the larger marital estate.

Of course, if you are the spouse not making as much, you may want to wait things out a bit until the economy improves and your 401(k) balances along with it.

The point is, in divorce timing is half the battle and January seems to be a popular time. Is it time to call a divorce lawyer?