Divorce rates decline by 30% according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS).
Statistics released by the ONS this morning indicate that the number of divorces granted in 2022 decreased by 29.5% to 80,057, compared to the previous year’s 113,505 divorces. This is the lowest number since 1971.
Despite expectations of an increase in divorce rates and inquiries among family lawyers, the statistics have come as a surprise. However, several factors have contributed to this significant decrease in divorce rates.
The introduction of no-fault divorce in April 2022 likely had a major impact on the overall number of divorces granted. While some couples were waiting for the implementation of no-fault divorce, which eliminated the need to assign blame, to proceed with their divorce, there was a surge in inquiries at that time. However, the mandatory waiting periods introduced with no-fault divorce likely resulted in fewer divorces being granted in 2022.
In addition, the ongoing effects of the Covid-19 pandemic led to a 9.6% increase in divorces in 2021 compared to 2020. The pandemic disrupted the family courts, resulting in fewer divorces being processed that year. However, with the introduction of remote hearings and other adaptations by the family justice system, more divorces were granted. This may have artificially inflated the number of divorces in 2021 compared to 2022.
Despite these factors, the dramatic drop in rates in 2022 compared to both 2021 and 2020 cannot be solely explained by these factors.
The cost-of-living crisis is being cited as a key reason for the decline, as many couples who wanted to separate postponed their divorce due to financial considerations. Rising gas and electricity prices, along with increased costs of food, bills, and housing, made it difficult for money to stretch as far. Concerns about future finances and transitioning from a dual income household to a single income household were prominent factors for many couples.
A survey conducted by Stowe Family Law on the impact of the cost-of-living crisis on relationships found that 30% of respondents were staying in their current relationship due to fears of being unable to afford living alone.
In addition, ONS reported last month that marriage rates in England and Wales had fallen below 50% for the first time on record. Only 49.4% of adults over 16 were reported to be married or in a civil partnership in 2022, directly impacting the number of divorces as divorce can only occur after marriage.
Family lawyers will closely monitor whether the decrease in divorce rates continues in the coming years, or if they are a reflection of the economic and social factors of recent years.
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