The “Valentine’s Day Effect” on Divorce in Georgia
Quick Summary: What you need to know
While February is known for Valentine’s Day, it is also one of the busiest months for divorce in Georgia. This seasonal spike—often called the “Valentine’s Day Effect”—occurs when couples move past the emotional and financial pressures of the holidays and gain clarity about the future of their marriage. At Naggiar & Sarif, we help clients navigate this transition with strategic planning for assets, custody, and long-term stability.
Why Divorce Inquiries Spike in February
The Holiday Effect
Many couples quietly decide to “hold it together” through the holidays. December is about family traditions, and January often feels like a reset month.
By February, the emotional expectation of Valentine’s Day can act as a breaking point—especially when romance feels forced rather than natural.
A Moment of Clarity
February often marks a shift from trying to make it work to planning for the future.
Instead of emotional decision-making, people begin thinking strategically about housing, finances, and their children’s stability.
Financial Ready-Signals
Practical timing matters. W-2s, 1099s, and early tax documents typically arrive in February.
For many people considering filing for divorce in GA, this financial transparency provides the confidence to move forward.
5 Critical Steps If You’re Considering a February Divorce Filing
- Understand “Irretrievably Broken”
Georgia allows no-fault divorce. You do not need to prove adultery or misconduct.
If the marriage is irretrievably broken, the court can grant a divorce. - Gather Financial Records
February is an ideal time to organize tax returns, bank statements, retirement accounts, real estate records, and business valuations.
This is especially important in high-asset divorce cases in Atlanta, where incomplete disclosure can significantly impact outcomes. - Confirm Georgia Residency Requirements
To file for divorce, you or your spouse must have lived in a Georgia county for at least six months before filing.
Common filing locations include Fulton County Superior Court, Cobb County, and Forsyth County. - Protect Your Digital Privacy
Divorce today includes digital discovery.
Review shared cloud storage, email accounts, passwords, and social media activity before filing. - Consult a Family Law Attorney Early
A strategic consultation can determine whether your case qualifies for an uncontested divorce in Georgia or requires a more comprehensive litigation strategy. A strategic consultation can also help you understand how Atlanta courts determine child custody, which is often the most emotionally and financially significant issue in any divorce involving children.
Frequently Asked Questions About Divorce in Georgia
How long does a divorce take in Georgia?
In Georgia, an uncontested divorce can be finalized as soon as 31 days after service.
Contested divorces—especially those involving child custody or high-value assets—often take several months to over a year, depending on court schedules in counties such as DeKalb or Gwinnett.
Can I file for divorce if my spouse doesn’t want to?
Yes. Georgia is a no-fault divorce state. Learn more in this blog post.
If one spouse testifies that the marriage is irretrievably broken, the court can grant the divorce even without the other spouse’s agreement.
The Naggiar & Sarif Difference
Divorce is not just a legal process—it’s a financial and emotional turning point.
At Naggiar & Sarif, our attorneys are experienced in both high-stakes litigation and efficient mediation, allowing us to tailor a strategy that protects your assets, your parental rights, and your long-term goals.
Whether you are filing in Fulton County or pursuing private mediation in Buckhead, our team brings local insight and strategic clarity to every case.
Take the Next Step
Don’t navigate this alone.
Schedule a confidential consultation today to protect your assets, your children, and your future. Complete the contact form below or call our Buckhead office at (404) 816-2004
Attorney Review & Authority
This article was reviewed by attorneys at Naggiar & Sarif, a Georgia-based family law firm representing clients in complex divorce, custody, and high-asset marital matters.