Three-fifths unable to get divorced due to their finances

New research commissioned by Co-op Legal Services reveals millions of married people may want to file for divorce but feel that their current circumstances are preventing them from taking this step.

Survey findings from the member-owned organisation show that almost three-fifths (59%) of married individuals who have considered divorce feel they can’t end their marriage due to financial reasons, whilst a similar number (60%) feel the same due to having children.

Approximately 9 in 10 (88%) married people believe that unhappily married couples who have children stay together because they have children. Of those who are divorced and have children, more than half (51%) shared that they had delayed their divorce for the sake of the kids.

Similarly, almost half (49%) of those who are divorced said they delayed proceedings due to financial reasons.

It appears that many married individuals have secretly contemplated ending their relationship as almost 1 in 5 (16%) of those who are married or in a civil partnership shared that they have considered asking for a divorce in their current relationship, even if their spouse/civil partner was unaware.

The research also reveals that couples are together on average four and a half years before getting married, whilst the seven-year itch is very much alive and kicking as the survey data reveals marriages which end in divorce tend to have lasted seven years on average.

Being unfaithful is the leading cause of divorce, with a third (33.4%) citing infidelity as the main factor in their decision to legally end their marriage. This was followed by growing apart (29.5%) and communication issues (15%).

When it comes to who makes the first move, just one-quarter (23%) of those who are divorced or currently going through divorce said that the divorce was initiated mutually with their spouse.

Ben Evans, Lead Family Law Solicitor at Co-op Legal Services, said “As much as we hope that a marriage will last forever, unforeseeable factors such as financial issues, growing apart, and infidelity sometimes arise which can break down a marriage.

“Getting divorced can be complicated further when the couple has children to consider or if they feel their finances do not allow for them to go their separate ways. I would advise anyone considering a divorce to seek support, whether that be with trusted family and friends, or through an independent service.

“There is a wealth of resources available to help those who are considering a separation. People can seek legal advice early to provide peace of mind, or to discuss the implications of divorce and the available options.”