Divorce Rates Rise As Economy Improves

According to a recent study conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau, the number of contested divorces or uncontested divorces that were filed over the past few years has dramatically increased when compared to the averages during the years immediately following the 2008 economic crisis. In 2012, (the most recent year studied) the number of divorces that were filed across the country rose to 2.4 million, a number which has steadily risen since the economic recession. The U.S. Census Bureau's investigation uncovered a correlation between the rising divorce rate and the strengthening economy. The report speculates that filing for a divorce results in the immediate need for the parties to procure separate housing which simultaneously generates finances that seem to have an overall beneficial effect on the national economy. In addition, divorced individuals are more likely to continue to work and seek out as many hours as possible as a means to maintain their lifestyles. Divorcing couples, typically, will no longer have the benefit of sharing living expenses with their soon to be ex-spouses and therefore either diligently remain in the workforce or persistently re-enter the workforce. Although this may have an advantageous affect on the national economy, studies show that that becoming single once again may prove to add to the expenses for the individuals who are divorcing. The cost of living for a single person is usually greater than it is for married couples because single individuals do not get some of the social benefits that married couples enjoy such as shared heath care, living expenses, and state and federal tax breaks. It is impossible to predict how divorce rates will be affected if the national economy continues to strengthen over time as certain variables can only be studied by looking at the longitudinal trends over time. Filing for a contested or uncontested divorce can be both confusing and emotionally difficult. Usually, doing so begins a process that will dramatically alter the lives of all of the parties involved and therefore no one should engage this process unless he or she is well informed regarding the process and the law. If you are involved, or anticipate that you will become involved, in a contested or uncontested divorce or it is critical that you seek out the advice of an experienced attorney before proceeding. For more information on contested divorce, uncontested divorce, alimony, child support, or other family law matters in New Jersey visit HeatherDarlingLawyer.com. This blog is for informational purposes and is in no way intended to replace the advice of an attorney.