Are People Still Divorcing During Lockdown?

The answer is yes.  And a lot more than we had thought, with enquiries increasing daily.

Some are still of the belief that they cannot do anything whilst they are still living in the same house (which isn’t true) but a lot are at least finding out if they can.

Divorce During Lockdown – What is causing the increase in divorce enquiries?

There are of course no distractions anymore, such as work, seeing friends, going to the gym or other such hobbies.  This means that couples have had to spend more time with each other, usually 24 hours a day every day.  It can either prove difficult to get on with each other or couples simply realise that there isn’t anything there in their relationship anymore or that they have no common interests or sometimes even a liking of each other anymore.

Other pressures can be having children at home all the time with the added stress of home schooling.  Financial concerns such as living on a reduced income or losing jobs can also cause friction in a relationship. Such stresses and pressures can cause couples to separate.

There are also those that have already separated and may have found that they have more time to think about their situation and decide to take action to deal with their divorce and finances.

Divorce During Lockdown – What are the challenges?

Remaining in the same house after a decision has been made, especially if the decision has been made by only one party, can be challenging in itself.

In addition, the housing market and rental market almost came to a standstill, although this now looks to be picking up, which made it difficult for couples to separate formally and live in different households.

Due to the current issues with the economy and therefore the financial climate, some assets have de-valued and this can make it even harder to resolve a financial settlement.  However, for the wealthier party, they may actually get a better deal whilst their assets are at a low value.

Previously agreed settlements may also no longer be viable and may have to be reconsidered.

Divorce During lockdown – Making Contact

We are still here to help you.  There are more options available than you think and it would be wise to get legal advice now.  You don’t have to leave it until after lockdown has ended.

For more information on divorce, separation, children and financial matters, please feel free to give one of the Family Law team a call on freephone 0800 011 6666 or email legal@timms-law.com.

Alison Wilding
22nd June 2020