No one enters into a marriage thinking that it will end in divorce. However, the sad reality is that many marriages do end in divorce. In the United States alone, there is about a 50% chance that a marriage will end in divorce.
When it comes to divorce, there are many factors that can contribute to the decision. Some people may cite financial reasons, while others may point to differences in lifestyle or parenting styles. So what are the top reasons for divorce? And more importantly, what should you do before seeking a divorce?
Read on for insights from our Jacksonville divorce lawyer on the most common causes of divorce. You might be surprised at some of the reasons people decide to call it quits.
The Top 5 Reasons for Divorce
There are many reasons why couples decide to get a divorce. While the reasons vary from couple to couple, there are some that appear more common than others. Here are the top five reasons for divorce, according to our Jacksonville divorce lawyer.
Lack of Commitment
Studies show that commitment issues are the leading cause of divorce in marriages today. While it is difficult to pinpoint a specific instance of lack of commitment in a relationship, there are always telltale signs that accumulate over time.
For example, your spouse may not be making an effort towards the family’s financial goals, not showing you the respect you deserve in the marriage, or not making an effort to provide the companionship you so desire. You may also feel neglected in a marriage if your spouse is a workaholic.
Lack of commitment is never a one-time thing. It is a frequently unresolved conflict that has accumulated over time and ultimately explodes when you have reached your breaking point. In most circumstances, there is no way out.
Infidelity
Unfaithfulness in marriage is another common divorce reason we encounter daily as a Jacksonville divorce lawyer. Sometimes, one partner cheats, which triggers the other to become unfaithful. Recovering from marital infidelity is a challenging task. It takes a lot of effort from both parties, as well as counseling sessions. Unfortunately, some people never recover from such betrayals and end up divorcing.
Marrying Too Young
Another common cause of divorce is marrying too young. You are probably wondering, “How young is too young?” This depends on several factors, such as your maturity as a couple. While studies show that most people who marry in their early twenties are more likely to divorce, there are many people who marry young and enjoy a fulfilling marriage.
However, the longer you are married, the more likely you are to change and no longer have the same goals, aspirations, and points of view. These arguments may lead to various conflicts within your family, upsetting your peace. You may want to end the marriage at that moment.
Finances
When it comes to marriage, money is a significant concern. You must set joint financial goals and figure out how to deal with your economic variations. Suppose you’re in a marriage where your partner withholds financial information from you or makes poor financial decisions without your knowledge. In that case, your odds of divorce are likely to be high.
Domestic Violence
Domestic violence may take many forms. The most common form that we deal with as a Jacksonville divorce lawyer is physical abuse. Physical abuse can result in major bodily injuries, and the consequences can lead to death. As a result, it’s best to leave a violent spouse as soon as they make any attempt to injure you.
Emotional and mental abuse are two other types of domestic violence. If your partner is emotionally blackmailing or gaslighting you, the chances of your marriage surviving are slim. You may also face verbal abuse, where your spouse insults and belittles you every chance they get.
Lastly, your partner may sexually abuse you. The worst thing about sexual abuse in marriage is that people often downplay it when survivors tell their stories. However, if you are a victim of abuse in your marriage, do not keep it hidden from our Jacksonville divorce lawyer, because telling them may help you build a case against your spouse and even receive compensation alongside your divorce.
Signs That a Separation or Divorce Is Necessary
So you have been in an unfulfilling marriage with lots of bickering, infidelity, and even violence, but are wondering if it is finally time to let go. As painful as it may be, there are times when divorce is the best (and at times the only) solution. Here are some indications that it is time to walk away from your marriage.
- You have tried other methods to save your marriage. When you first think of divorce, experts advise you to consider other options such as counseling or separation for a while. If you’ve tried that and it did not work, it is probably time to walk away.
- When you believe you will be better off without your spouse. Always remember to consider your well-being. Would you be better off without your spouse? If the answer is yes, then it’s time.
- Your partner is abusing you. Abuse comes in various forms. From mental to physical. If you are being abused in the marriage. It is time to consider a divorce.
- You are being unfaithful. Whether you are being physically unfaithful or practicing emotional infidelity, that is a sign that it is time to get out of that marriage.
What To Do Before Seeking A Divorce
Before seeking a divorce, you need to do a few things to smoothen your process. If you rush into a divorce, you may make grave mistakes that could cost your property, child custody, and eventually your peace. Our Jacksonville divorce lawyer advises clients to do the following things when anticipating a divorce.
Seek Legal Counsel
While you can file for a divorce by yourself without hiring a divorce lawyer, that might not be the most prudent approach. Chances are that your spouse will lawyer up as soon as you hand in your divorce papers, and they will get the upper hand in the divorce. As soon as you decide to file for a divorce, find a great divorce lawyer and work with them to establish all you need to do to have a successful divorce.
Inventory Your Property
Before marriage, you probably inherited some family property or gained some assets by yourself. Such assets may be safe after your divorce. You will need to carefully inventory all your property and have documentation to support it. This way, you will not lose your property to your spouse.
Secure Your Communication
Filing for divorce will begin a series of confidential communications that you do not want your spouse to access. Be sure to protect your digital communication with strong passwords and encryption. You should also get a new postal address for your mail. Another helpful tip would be to find a new location where you can store any physical documents.
Plan Your Finances
You must carefully consider your finances before beginning your divorce. For instance, you will need to factor in your lawyer’s fees. You may also want to consider what will happen if you miss some days off work to attend court sessions.
Also, how will you now manage a single income if you were living on a double income as a family? Planning your finances can be nerve-wracking, but with the help of your lawyer, you can come up with something that will work.
Gather Relevant Documents
You will need all the relevant documentation if the divorce is to go in your favor. For instance, if you are filing a divorce for infidelity or your partner’s poor financial decisions, documented evidence may paint a clearer picture and tip the scales in your favor.
Also, you need documents to prove property ownership and all other details surrounding your divorce. So do not overlook the documentation. Keep copies of everything that may be helpful in your divorce.
We’ve Got You!
While some partners can be civil about getting a divorce, others can make the entire divorce a messy affair. It gets much harder when your spouse does not want you to leave. When that happens, you need the best Jacksonville divorce lawyer to guide you through the process in a lawful way. Luckily for you, we’ve got you covered!
Our divorce lawyer at Griffin Family Law, PLLC has vast experience dealing with divorce cases and knows how to handle any issue that comes their way. We also know how to deal with the custody battles and financial complications that may come with your divorce. Reach out today and find the best help you need.
