Divorce Rate at its Lowest in 50 Years

For those who are married or considering tying the knot, there is some great news: the divorce rate is dropping. In fact, in 2019, it was the lowest in 50 years. For every 1,000 marriages in 2019, only 14.9 ended in divorce. On top of that, the average duration of marriages has also increased. In 2010, the average marriage lasted 19 years. In 2019, the duration increased to 19.8 years.

But there is something to consider. While the divorce rates are dropping, so are the marriage rates. In 2019, for every 1,000 adults, only 33 got married. To compare, this number was 86 in 1970. So in the past 50 years, societal norms have changed, causing marriage rates to decline dramatically.

When couples do decide to get married, they take their time and make sure they are truly ready. They are older and know what they are looking for in a partner. They are not rushing to get married right after high school, like many couples did decades ago. Many of those couples are now regretting their decision and going through gray divorces, which are divorces initiated after the age of 50.

But what about 2020? Many couples have divorced due to stress caused by the coronavirus pandemic. Won’t the divorce rate increase? The Institute for Family Studies says no. They expect the divorce rate to continue to drop. At the same time, the pandemic has caused many marriages to be delayed, so when there are fewer marriages, it can be expected that the number of divorces will be fewer as well.

In any case, the pandemic has not affected couples equally. The coronavirus is either making or breaking marriages. Couples are having to spend more time together and many are embracing it, making their marriages stronger than ever. They are able to weather the crisis together. They enjoy getting to spend the extra time with family and it makes them appreciate their marriages more.

On the other hand, the pandemic has led to many stressors, including job loss, financial issues, childcare issues, distance learning and health concerns. All of these elements can have a huge impact on relationships. When marriage is already in trouble, these factors will only drive it to the edge and lead to divorce. This is especially true when it comes to money matters. So it all depends on how well the couple can work together and handle the crises they are facing.

Contact a Maryland Family Law Attorney Today

While divorce rates are dropping, you should never assume your marriage is safe. Situations change and the unexpected, like a coronavirus pandemic, can happen, causing a rift in your marriage. Even older couples are contemplating divorce at high rates.

Whether you are divorcing or want to take steps to protect your marriage, the Columbia divorce lawyers at the Law Offices of Todd K. Mohink, P.A. can help. We can help you strengthen your marriage or end it with as little stress as possible. Learn more by calling (410) 774-5987 or filling out the online form. We have two offices to serve you.

Resource:

sports.yahoo.com/the-us-divorce-rate-is-the-lowest-its-been-in-50-years-says-new-study-003630590.html