Many in the media predicted that COVID-19 and the resulting quarantines would increase the number of divorces. Has their prediction come true? Keep reading to earn about the data, and then contact Law Office of Michael L. Fell at 949-585-9055 if you are considering a divorce and need help from an experienced family law attorney.
Why Do People Assume the Divorce Rate is Going Up?
Some people expected divorce rates to go up because of all the challenges various families would be facing. It has long been known that economic issues are one of the most common reasons for divorce, and COVID-19 has resulted in many people not being able to work. Likewise, spending all their time with one person can put pressure on a relationship that was not already strong. These seem like good points, but they might not be proven by the data.
Several States Have Seen a Decline in Marriage Rates During COVID
A study from Bowling Green State University showed that divorce and marriage rates went down in several states. This study looked at data from five states, including Arizona, Oregon, Missouri, Florida, and New Hampshire. They compared divorce statistics from months in 2020 to months in 2018 and 2019. In all five states, there was an initial decline in marriage of at least 20%, while marriage rates in Arizona and New Hampshire did rebound but continued to go down in the other three states.
None of this is surprising. Anyone who wants to have a large wedding and is abiding by even the minimum COVID recommendations will have to put it off until we can all gather together safely. Likewise, most people are wary of flying and would choose not to do so even for a wedding.
Divorce Rates in Various States
During the earliest months of the pandemic, all five states covered in the study saw declines in marriage rates. In Arizona, divorces ended the year at 2% higher than in previous years, but all four other states saw fewer divorces in 2020 compared to 2019 and 2018. Missouri saw a decline of 22% and New Hampshire divorces were down 36%.
Call Now for a Free Legal Consultation
Are you ready to request a free legal consultation? Whether you are considering a divorce, want to draw up a prenuptial agreement, or need a custody modification, we are here to help. Call Law Office of Michael L. Fell now at 949-585-9055 for a free legal consultation.