Downward trend in divorce rates except for women over 55

Posted 09/12/2016 By: Stephen Williams

The latest divorce figures released by the Office of National Statistics shows a decrease in the number of divorces by 3.1% between 2013 and 2014 and, perhaps more interestingly, a decrease of 27% since 2003. Stephen Williams, head of family law at Ashtons Legal, comments:

“Factors relevant to this decrease are suggested to be the choices that people are now making to marry later or simply cohabit and not marry at all. It must not be forgotten also that during that period we have had a major economic recession which may well have caused some people to rethink plans to divorce on the back of uncertain asset values. It will be interesting to see whether Brexit likewise will have an effect on this most personal decision.

The one age group that is not following this trend is women over the age of 55 and in fact the rate of divorces among women aged 55 to 59 has risen slightly. The reason has not yet been fully identified but my experience suggests that women within that age group are now less willing to endure unsatisfactory relationships than has been historically been the case.

Unfortunately there are currently no statistics available about the number of Marital Agreements (Prenuptial or Postnuptial) now being prepared. This is an area in which I would hope to see a rise, where prudent people who are either marrying later having accumulated assets or re-marrying following divorce seek to protect the assets they have already accumulated.”

If you require any advice on marital agreements, divorce or separation please contact Stephen Williams on 01473 261363, 07809 389680 or Stephen.williams@ashtonslegal.co.uk.