In the past few years, there has been a clear drop in requests for divorce, domestic abuse applications, and non-molestation orders.
The number of divorce applications was 11% lower from January to March 2024 than it was during the same time period in 2023. The number of domestic violence applications was 8% lower, and the number of orders for domestic violence were 6% lower.
These patterns are important because they show how views have altered and laws have been changed. They also reflect today’s social and economic situation with finances and cost of living impacting the decision to divorce. Divorce and Finance Solicitor Hannah Porter explores some of the factors that may have contributed to the decline.
Changes and reforms to divorce law
Legal changes that aim to make divorce less contentious and more clear are a big reason why the number of divorce applications has gone down. For instance, the implementation of “no-fault” divorce rules in some areas has made the process easier by letting couples split up without pointing fingers. There may be a short-term drop in applications as couples get used to and learn how to use the new method.
Couples are encouraged to try to work out their problems without fighting and to think again about their choice to split up. If they have done either of these things, it is asked in the divorce application. The goal of these steps is to make divorce less hostile and encourage couples to get back together whenever possible.
The number of final orders for financial matters were up 19% for same period. This is encouraging following a concern that divorcing couples were leaving themselves vulnerable to financial claims against for the ex-spouse in the future, regardless of the current situation.
Better Access to Relationship Support Services
More relationship counselling and support programmes are now available than ever before. Counselling services, both in-person and online, provide tools and strategies to improve communication and resolve conflicts. By addressing issues early, these services can prevent the escalation of marital problems, reducing the likelihood of divorce.
Educational programs that focus on relationship skills and emotional intelligence are becoming more prevalent equipping individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to maintain healthy relationships. This could lead to fewer marriages ending in divorce.
Economic Factors and Financial Considerations
Stability in the finances is a big reason why people decide to get a divorce. Couples may be more likely to stay together during times of economic anxiety or recession because they need the money. Divorce can be too expensive because of the legal fees, dividing assets, and the effect on the economy of keeping two different homes.
Recent changes in the economy, like higher living costs and unstable finances, may have stopped couples from getting a divorce. Couples who are having problems in their marriage may look for other ways to solve their problems because the cost of a divorce can be very high.
Changing Social Attitudes
People’s attitudes towards marriage and divorce have evolved. There is now greater acceptance of diverse family structures and less stigma attached to seeking help for relationship issues. This shift encourages individuals to address their problems openly and seek support without reduced fear of judgment. The level of this openness and acceptance varies by cultures and beliefs but overall there is a definite shift.
The changing perception of marriage as a partnership based on mutual respect and equality has contributed to the decline in divorce applications. As gender roles work to becoming more equal, couples are more likely to work collaboratively to resolve issues, reducing the likelihood of divorce.
Increased Awareness of Domestic Abuse
The decrease in domestic abuse applications and non-molestation orders can be attributed to better awareness and focus on prevention. Public campaigns like the one we’ve seen for the Euro’s and educational initiatives have raised awareness about the signs of domestic abuse and the importance of seeking help.
Whilst there is still work to do there has been an increased availability of support services such as hotlines, shelters, and they can still apply for legal aid.
Technology and Social Media
Technology and social media have transformed the way individuals seek and receive support. Online platforms provide access to a wealth of information and resources related to relationship health, domestic abuse prevention, and legal advice. Whilst there is some misinformation, largely they are good resources.
Technology makes it easier to talk to each other and work out disagreements by giving us apps that help couples handle their relationships. These tools can help people talk to each other more clearly, avoid mistakes, and build stronger relationships.
There is a flip side to this where used inappropriately the same apps and social media channels can also cause issues in a relationship. With revenge porn or image-based sexual abuse becoming a crime in 2015.
Legal reforms, increased access to support services, economic considerations, changing social attitudes, awareness and prevention efforts, and the impact of technology all contribute to the current decrease in divorce applications, domestic abuse applications, and non-molestation orders.
Although no-fault divorce has given couples a better opportunity to end their marriage amicably and without assigning blame, it is still important that the financial implications are considered. It’s key to talk with a legal professional to make sure assets are protected and to prevent any complications in the future. Our specialist family law team work with families and individuals to find the right lawyer and right outcome for them.
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