The winter holidays are fast upon us, bringing a whirlwind of festivity, shopping, parties and time with family and friends. You might think no one has time to talk settlement amid all the hustle and bustle, but you would be wrong. There are at least two major reasons why parties on both sides of disputes find the end of the year to be a perfect time to come to agreement, despite the logistical difficulties of scheduling discussions: fiscal and emotional.

First, the fiscal side. Most businesses and law firms want to close their books at year-end. Moving files from the open to resolved category allows them to reduce their reserves, minimize costs they are carrying over into the next year, and make more informed financial predictions. Similarly, for claimants, knowing that their matter is resolved allows them to make plans for the future without the uncertainty involved with a ongoing suit or claim. Some appreciate the prospect of some extra cash for holiday shopping, paying bills, and tax planning.  Both sides have strong fiscal incentives to come to agreement now without dragging the matter out any further.

Parties are also emotionally motivated to settle cases this time of year. The winter holidays invoke a spirit of generosity and community.  Folks also want to put things behind them to enjoy time with family and friends. Finally, the end of the year is a time when many aim to wrap things up in order to start the new year with a clean slate. All of these factors mean that parties and counsel are often especially motivated to compromise at the end of the year. Since most cases settle, take advantage of this most wonderful time of the year to resolve yours.