Surge in applications since landmark divorce law reforms
The government confirmed the reform of divorce law in April of 2019, providing married couples with a “no-fault” exit out of their marriage, and, two years later, in April 2022 this came into force. The no-fault procedure provides a smoother, less hostile departure from a marriage and allows individuals to act for themselves, making divorcing their spouses simpler.
The two-year build-up to the implementation of the new legislation meant that many couples and individuals considering divorce decided not to petition under old law and to instead wait for the no-fault procedure to become law. As such, it should come of no surprise that latest commentary from The Law Gazette states there has been a 22% increase in divorce applications issued in the three-month period between April- June 2022, compared to the same period in 2021. Reportedly, reaching a decade high.
However, the latest crisis the country faces is that of the cost of living and this has the ability to stop the rise of petitioning individuals in their tracks, as Monidipa Fouzder of The Law Gazette highlights. It is no secret that divorce takes its toll on a couple’s assets and often results in each party facing higher housing and living costs; this is without the additional pressure of the cost of living.
Nevertheless, making the decision to petition for divorce is not one that an individual makes lightly. It is one that has been thought over repeatedly and is often shadowed with careful consideration of the financial implications of doing so. Consequently, when the individual decides to proceed with the divorce, they are usually committed and unlikely to change their minds, despite the challenges.
Though the cost-of-living crisis and financial uncertainty many of us now face will no doubt have an impact on divorce application numbers, it is prudent to remember the recent surge will naturally slow down as applications from those who waited for the implementation of no-fault divorce before filing, fizzle out. In reality, we know divorcing your spouse has financial implications and often, will often leave both parties in a less desirable financial position initially. Thousands of people file for divorce despite this, in the hope the freedom leaving an unhappy marriage will provide them with will be worth the financial strain.
Our family team specialise in divorce law, and can provide effective, bespoke legal advice to help you make an informed decision. Our array of legal expertise allows us to practically and sensitively deal with any issues that may arise from the breakdown of a relationship, including resolving financial, childcare and cohabitation disputes.
For more information please visit our Family Law service pages or to arrange an appointment please contact us by calling 01603 666001 or emailing admin@rogers-norton.co.uk.
*This article is provided for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal or any other professional advice.