Record Levels of Divorce – Is Divorce For You?

It has often been said that 50% of marriages end in divorce. While the UK figures stand at 42% as of 2021, record levels of divorce might mean that figure is not far off. With more couples considering divorce as an option, it’s important to make sure your divorce is in your and your family’s best interest and not something you ultimately end up regretting.  

What’s the Current Divorce Rate?

In 2021, the divorce rate for opposite-sex and same sex-couples combined was 9.3 for men and 9.4 for women per 1,000 of the married population. These rates are the highest since 2014. 2021 saw an increase of 0.8 compared with 2020 rates for both women and men.

Why is there a Record Level of Divorce?

It’s no secret that marriages can be difficult at times and pinpointing the sole reason that couples divorce can be difficult. However, there are some UK-wide factors that have contributed to the record level of divorce in recent years.

Changes in Divorce Law

The introduction of no-fault divorce law in England and Wales in 2022 has made it easier for couples to end their marriage without the need for specific reasoning such as adultery or unreasonable behaviour. As a result, more couples are seeking to divorce.

Increased Stress and Pressure

The last few years have seen couples under increasing stress and pressure. The pandemic saw couples who potentially were already experiencing issues, now forced to live under one roof, in some cases with very little personal space. During and post-pandemic, many jobs have been on the line with mass redundancies and company restructures.

Finally, the current cost-of-living crisis makes many of these struggles worse. Often couples do not communicate these struggles. This can result in resentment and eventually divorce.

How to Make Sure Divorce is the Best Choice for You?

There are many reasons why couples might want a divorce, and you should leave a relationship that you don’t want to be in. However, getting a divorce is a significant step that will affect you and your family’s life.

If you’re considering a divorce, our divorce solicitors can provide advice and support.

In a recent poll by content creator, Cat Sims asked, ‘does anyone regret getting a divorce?’ She discovered out of 2,736 votes; a significant 405 people admitted to regretting their divorce. The reasoning for their regret differed with many claiming they regretted not making their family unit work but a few stating they were missing their ex-partner.

Trial Separations

For couples looking to work out their issues or who are unsure whether divorce is the right option for them, a trial separation can offer temporary legal separation.

A trial separation is an informal agreement of a period of time that couples spend legally separated from each other.

The trial separation is a step below legal separation as it does not involve legal paperwork.

The goal of any separation is to give both parties both space and time to work on both themselves and their relationship.

A trial separation allows for couples to spend time apart to save their relationship without influence from each other.

Additional Considerations Before Considering Divorce

When asking is divorce best for you, it’s worth considering the below guidance, to ensure you go into a divorce with clarity and without regrets.  

Consider seeking the help of a counsellor

Enlisting the assistance of a qualified third party, such as a couple’s counsellor, can provide you with objective advice on how to improve your relationship.

Clarify your expectations for the separation

 Discuss with your partner what the separation will entail so that you are both on the same page. Ask questions such as whether you will attend family events together, what information you will share with friends and family, and whether you will continue going on dates.

Agree on when and how to communicate

It is important to decide with your partner how you will communicate during the separation. Will you call each other every day or send texts?

Discuss financial arrangements

Since you will be living apart, you may need to make plans for your finances. Talk with your partner about who will be responsible for paying each bill, whether you will maintain a joint bank account, and if you will assist each other financially.

Establish your goals

Before starting the separation, have an open discussion with your partner about your goals for the trial separation. This will set a solid foundation for the trial separation.

Getting Help from Cartwright King’s Divorce Solicitors

While it’s not mandatory, it’s advisable for both partners to obtain independent legal advice if they plan to have a trial separation. A family solicitor can assist with the terms of the separation agreement to ensure that it is fair for both parties.

Moreover, in case your spouse violates the terms of the agreement or begins to harass you, a family solicitor can provide you with assistance. A family solicitor can help you obtain the financial support you are entitled to during the trial separation.

Our dedicated family law solicitors have extensive experience in guiding clients across the UK through divorces or trial separations, including financial settlement hearings and disputes involving children. We are committed to finding solutions that work for everyone involved.

For expert help and advice, please don’t hesitate to contact us today.