February 1, 2022 | Divorce

According to the CDC, approximately 827,000 couples divorce every year. That translates to about 68, 916 divorces every month. Studies show divorce rates are now up to 50%. Many of the couples seeking divorce do so after several years of marriage. But what causes so many couples to decide to end their marriages?

Most common reasons people seek a divorce lawyer

Family situations differ greatly. Marriages are just as unique as the two individuals that make up the couple. However, there are similarities in the causes of divorce. Below we discuss the most common reasons why people seek the assistance of a divorce lawyer.

1. Infidelity

Many people that decide to marry trust their partners completely. In order for marriages to thrive, this trust must be maintained. Infidelity to many people is the ultimate betrayal of that trust. Whether the infidelity was physical or emotional, it is difficult to regain trust once it is broken. Infidelity is the cause of up to 40% of divorces.

If your partner has been unfaithful and you are seeking a divorce, you will need to provide evidence supporting this claim. This can be in the form of direct evidence such as witnesses, recordings or photos that clearly show the infidelity. It can also be in the form of circumstantial evidence that shows your spouse had the interest and opportunity to commit adultery.

2. Financial problems

Money is often a sensitive issue in relationships and most especially in marriage. How the finances are handled in a marriage can be the source of many problems. A lack of compatibility in your approach to financial management can lead to problems that will place a strain on the marriage. For example the power struggle between the couple can put a strain on the relationship that leads to a break.

Finances are a big issue in marriage because money touches every aspect of a person’s life. A difference in spending habits and financial goals as well as a failure to discuss financial issues can lead to disagreements which lead to the breakdown of the marriage.

3. Poor communication

Good communication is important for any relationship. It is crucial for a marriage to thrive. It is the foundation of a strong marriage. If two people that share their lives together cannot talk about what they need or do not feel understood, the relationship is bound to crumble and fall apart.

Yelling, arguing, insulting each other or not talking to each other are all unhealthy methods of communicating. Many couples cite poor communication as the underlying cause of their marriages falling apart. When couples aren’t communicating effectively it results in adultery, poor financial planning and other causes of conflict and divorce.

4. Addiction

Another common reason for couples deciding to end their marriages is addiction. Couples may decide to divorce over different types of addictions including alcohol, illegal substances, prescription medication, gambling and pornography. Addictions can result in the breakdown of communication. They can also lead to behaviors that are intolerable such as physical abuse of the partner and/or their children, emotional abuse, stealing, dishonesty, poor financial choices and infidelity. Many couples choose to divorce when the partner with the addiction fails to address their behavior.

5. Falling out of love

This is becoming an increasingly common reason for divorce. It is especially common amongst older couples i.e. couples in their 60s, 50s and 40s. Many of these couples got married young, had children and raised them. However, after spending years together raising their children and now facing life with an empty nest, they find that there is a lack of intimacy. The couples have simply grown apart and can no longer find a common ground to stand on. There may be no obvious problems but the couple feels that they have fallen out of love and would prefer to live apart.

6. Physical and/or emotional abuse

Many couples divorce as a result of physical or emotional abuse. The abuse may be the result of unaddressed issues in the past of the abuser, substance abuse or personality issues. Physical or emotional abuse may be directed at the partner and/or their children. In these cases, divorce could be the best option for the safety, health and wellbeing of the partner being abused as well as the children.

Get legal assistance

Your reasons for choosing divorce may be different from those outlined above or may be a combination of the factors above. Whatever the case may be, it is important to seek the guidance and representation of an experienced divorce attorney. Your divorce lawyer will guide you on the best way to approach your divorce and ensure that your best interests are considered throughout the process.

Contact us now to speak with an experienced divorce lawyer. Learn about your rights and your options.

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