DIVORCE ON THE INCREASE FOR THE OLDER GENERATION

Statistics reveal that the number of people getting divorced each year has been steadily falling over recent times. The divorce rate was at its peak in the mid-1990s. This is however in contrast to the number of people aged 60 and over getting divorced which has been rising during this period of time.

We often assume that relationship breakdown is more prevalent in the under 30s and that it is in this age group where relationships are more likely to break down.   Clearly the statistics prove otherwise.   It may well be the case that changes in life expectancy have led couples to reconsider whether, according to the adage, they really want to “grow old together”. 

It is also fair to say that society does not view divorce with the same disapproval as was the case a generation ago.  In addition, many women now are more financially independent than were there mothers before them. 

It can also be said that the “mid-life crisis” is not just a myth.   Divorce in later life can often be triggered by this and it does not exclusively apply to men.   

Many couples decide that having increasingly grown apart over what could be a lengthy marriage and having fulfilled their responsibilities to their children, then divorce for them, is the best way forward.  Whilst many couples look forward to retiring and spending more time with their families and more importantly their partners, when a marriage is in difficulties the very thought of one partner spending increasing periods of time with the other is viewed with horror! 

Pension funds can now be split and equalised and of course this is of benefit to the parties and in particular more often than not the wife, but not always so, who might have feared the financial implications of a divorce in later life. 

Whatever the statistics reveal it goes without saying that divorce can affect couples at any stage.  They can be in their twenties or in their sixties.   What is important is that expert legal advice is sought at an early stage. 

For an initial consultation at no cost please contact Judith Fitzpatrick at RDC.  Email: judith@rdcsolicitors.co.uk  Tel: 01274 723858