Recent statistics indicate that many couples feel that the COVID-19 pandemic has negatively impacted their relationship—for some, enough to call it quits entirely. As a result, the US divorce rate is currently spiking in the wake of the virus.
Today, we're taking a brief look at the history of divorce in the US and why the coronavirus pandemic is causing couples to file for divorce.
Is the Divorce Rate Up During COVID-19?
Yes. According to a recent survey, 31% of US couples reported that the COVID-19 pandemic damaged their relationship. Studies indicate a 34% increase in sales of their divorce agreement forms compared to July of 2019.
Those statistics in the US mirror an increased divorce rate in other countries, like China. In some cities, court clerks had to process so many divorce filings they didn't have time for water breaks after quarantines across the country lifted.
At this point, it's undeniable that COVID-19 is causing the divorce rate to spike across the US and the world at large.
Why Is the Divorce Rate Increasing?
There are several factors at play here.
Economic instability is a big one. Over 40 million Americans lost their jobs during the pandemic, and the Department of Commerce reported a quarterly GDP shrinkage of around 9% (32.9% annualized) in July—the biggest economic downturn in almost a century.
Money plays a big role in marital disputes. As spouses get laid off or are forced into more stressful roles at work, relationship tensions can increase.
Mandatory stay-at-home orders and lockdowns are probably the other big factor. Many couples rely on time away from each other at work or with friends to maintain a healthy marriage, but the pandemic has largely removed opportunities for spouses to get away from each other.
The more time partners spend around one another, the more prone they may be to arguing or other marital disputes. With the pandemic still escalating in severity, those issues won't come to a close anytime soon—which could cause many couples to call it quits entirely.
If you decide filing for divorce is right for you, our lawyers at Lane & Lane, LLC, are here to help. Our experienced family law attorneys can help you find the best path forward in your divorce.
To schedule a consultation with our team or learn more about how we can help you navigate the divorce process, contact us online or via phone at (908) 259-6673.
