Financial pressures force couples to rethink separation as divorce costs soar

In an unprecedented shift reflecting the current economic landscape, divorce rates in the UK have fallen to their lowest since 1971. The staggering decrease, with 80,057 couples legally dissolving their unions in 2022—a 30% drop from the previous year—highlights the profound impact of the cost of living crisis on personal decisions.

Legal professionals point to the daunting expenses associated with going solo as a significant deterrent for couples contemplating divorce. The financial burden of separation, including legal fees and the cost of establishing independent households, has prompted many to reconsider their options. According to Aviva, the average divorce costs around £14,500, factoring in the standard court fee of £593 and additional legal expenses.

This economic strain is not just theoretical. Katie O’Callaghan from Boodle Hatfield law firm observes that individuals are increasingly wary of making decisions that could jeopardize their financial stability, especially in uncertain times. This sentiment is echoed by Sarah Jane Boon of Charles Russell Speechlys, who notes that the cost of living crisis undeniably contributes to the declining divorce rates.

Further evidence of the financial factor’s influence comes from Legal & General, revealing that economic pressures have postponed 19% of divorces. This reluctance to separate is further compounded by logistical hurdles, including backlogs in family courts and a mandatory 20-week waiting period for new no-fault divorces, as reported by the Office for National Statistics.

With marriages now lasting an average of 12.9 years before divorce, it’s clear that the current economic climate is reshaping the landscape of personal relationships. As couples navigate these challenging times, the decision to part ways is increasingly viewed through the lens of financial viability, underscoring the profound impact of the cost of living crisis on the very fabric of society.