Divorce Filings Steady During Pandemic

Experts are predicting that the divorce rate will rise dramatically over the next few months as people get tired of being quarantined with their husbands and wives. After all, dealing with your spouse’s nagging, laziness and annoying quirks 24/7 is only fun for so long, right?

The good news is that the number of divorce cases has not really risen all that much yet. In fact, filings are steady and restraining orders are actually down in some parts of the country, which is surprising considering that they were expected to increase as people spend more time with their abusive spouses.

Maryland courts are closed until May 1, so if you’re considering divorce, you can contact a lawyer now, but don’t expect much to happen until the courts reopen. Various communication platforms are used to conduct remote proceedings, but the court is staffed for emergency issues only at this time. This includes domestic violence petitions, search warrants, juvenile detention hearings and bail reviews.

You would think that people would not be considering divorce and adding more stress during an already stressful time. However, stress does not always bring people together. In a married couple, there is often one person who manages stress well, while the other person freaks out even more. This can cause the couple to butt heads, to the point where they just cannot stand each other any longer.

While divorce filings are not increasing at the moment, lawyers are still busy. They have had their phones ringing off the hook with people considering divorce. People are worried and frustrated. They no longer want to be quarantined with their spouse.

Some people want to start the process now and are awaiting a court date. Some are waiting to get more money together. In many cases, though, the marriage was already on rocky ground and isolation is pushing them over the edge. They cannot deal with this new pressure. It is predicted that once the quarantine is over and life gets back to normal, divorce lawyers will see a lot of new business.

So while divorces may increase soon, the good news is that restraining orders are down in some areas of the country. The biggest factor appears to be the lack of available alcohol. Bars and restaurants are closed, so a person can no longer meet somewhere to get drunk and out of control.

Divorce should be a last resort. If you’re frustrated with your spouse, take a deep breath and stay calm. Support your loved ones and spend more time with them.

Contact a Maryland Divorce Lawyer Today

The statistics regarding divorces and restraining orders look good right now, but things can definitely change over the next few months. As the quarantine continues, people are bound to get fed up with their spouses and initiate divorce.

If you are seriously considering divorce, get help from the Columbia divorce lawyers at the Law Offices of Todd K. Mohink, P.A. We understand your frustration and will guide you through the legal and emotional components. To schedule a free consultation, fill out the online form or call (410) 774-5987. We have two offices to serve you.

Resources:

baltimore.cbslocal.com/2020/03/25/coronavirus-closings-maryland-courts-extend-closures-through-april/

fox13news.com/news/divorce-filings-remain-steady-restraining-orders-down-during-coronavirus-pandemic

https://www.marylandlawhelp.com/petty-things-that-can-end-a-marriage/