What Year of Marriage is Most Common for a Divorce?

Divorce is a complex and distressing life event that affects countless couples every year. In recent years, the divorce rates across the nation have been going up. Data shows that divorce rates are relatively higher for second and third marriages. While the reasons behind marital breakdowns can be varied and deeply personal, research shows that certain patterns emerge when it comes to the timing of divorces. There are certain high-risk periods during the course of a marriage during which couples are more likely to get divorced, due to a variety of reasons. 

In What Year of Marriage Is Divorce Most Common?

In the US, divorces are most common during two key periods:  

• The first two years after marriage 
• Between the fifth and eighth year of marriage 

Among these high-risk periods, years seven and eight stand out as particularly challenging for married couples. Research shows that these years are generally the most difficult in marital relationships, with a significantly higher number of couples choosing to end their marriage during this time. 

Why is Divorce So Common During the Seventh and Eighth Years of Marriage?

In many cases, the seventh and eighth years of marriage are marked by a transition phase that can create substantial turbulence. Experts say that as people evolve through their adult lives, they often encounter a period of restlessness and change roughly between the six to ten-year mark of their marriage. Couples who initially thrived on the stability and routines established in the early years may find that these very routines become stifling or unsatisfactory.

During the initial years of marriage, partners establish their roles, routines, and expectations. This period creates a sense of stability and predictability, which can be comforting. However, as time progresses, individual needs and desires evolve. By the fifth, sixth, seventh, or eighth year, one or both partners may experience restlessness, finding that the structured life they once valued no longer suits them.

This dissatisfaction often arises because the initial qualities that attract partners to each other may now seem restrictive or annoying. The dependable partner might appear rigid and controlling, while the spontaneous partner might seem overly dramatic. The discontent can manifest in various ways, such as increased arguments, emotional distancing, or even infidelity. The underlying message in these situations often becomes, “This is not working; I need a fresh start.” Such sentiments can lead to divorce as couples struggle to navigate these changes and reassess their compatibility. 

Common Causes of Divorce in Virginia

Divorce can result from a variety of factors, often interrelated and complex. Here are some common causes:

• Communication Problems: Poor communication can lead to misunderstandings, unresolved conflicts, and emotional distance. 
• Infidelity: Affairs or breaches of trust can severely damage the foundation of a marriage, leading to a breakdown in the relationship.
• Financial Issues: Money problems, including debt, differing spending habits, and financial stress, can strain a marriage and contribute to disagreements and dissatisfaction.
• Lack of Intimacy: Emotional and physical intimacy are important aspects of a marriage. A decline in intimacy can lead to feelings of disconnect and dissatisfaction.
• Differences in Goals and Values: Over time, couples may find that their personal goals or values diverge significantly, leading to conflicts and difficulties in maintaining a shared vision for the future.
• Unresolved Conflicts: Failing to address and resolve conflicts can lead to resentment and long-term issues that can erode the foundation of the marital relationship.
• Lack of Commitment: A lack of commitment or effort on the part of one or both spouses in maintaining the relationship can lead to feelings of neglect and dissatisfaction.

Legal Grounds for Fault-Based Divorce in Virginia 

Adultery 

If one spouse has engaged in a sexual relationship outside of the marriage, this can be grounds for fault divorce. Evidence of adultery must be presented in court.

Cruelty 

This includes physical or mental cruelty that makes it unsafe or intolerable for one spouse to continue living with the other spouse. 

Desertion 

This ground is applicable if one spouse has left the marital home and has lived apart from the other spouse for at least one year without reasonable cause or consent. For desertion to be grounds for divorce, the separation must be continuous and without the intention of returning.

Felony Conviction

If one spouse has been convicted of a felony and sentenced to confinement for a period of more than one year, the other spouse can use this as a ground for fault divorce. 

Steps You Should Take If You Are Planning to File for Divorce

• Reflect on Your Decision: Carefully consider whether divorce is the best course of action for your situation. Assess your reasons for divorce and explore whether reconciliation or counseling might be viable options.
• Organize Financial and Personal Documents: Gather and organize essential documents, including financial statements, tax returns, property deeds, and other relevant paperwork. This information is crucial for asset division and financial negotiations during the divorce.
• Understand the Grounds for Divorce: Decide whether you want to file for a fault-based divorce or a no-fault divorce. If you are opting for a fault-based divorce, collect evidence to support your claims. For a no-fault divorce, make sure you meet the separation requirements.
• Plan for Custody and Support: If you have children, think about custody arrangements and child support. Consider what arrangement would be in the best interest of your children and how you plan to address these issues in your divorce.
• Create a Financial Plan: Develop a financial plan to address your post-divorce financial needs. It can help you negotiate financial settlements more effectively.
• Consult a Divorce Attorney: Seek legal advice from a qualified Virginia divorce attorney to understand your rights and options. An attorney can provide guidance on Virginia’s divorce laws and help you prepare for the legal process.

Why Strong Legal Representation Matters in a Virginia Divorce

Whether you are planning to file for a fault or no-fault divorce in Virginia, getting effective legal representation should be your topmost priority for several reasons. These include: 

Navigating Complex Processes

The divorce process can be intricate, involving multiple steps such as filing petitions, serving documents, negotiating settlements, and attending court hearings. An experienced Virginia divorce lawyer can handle the procedural aspects of your case, ensuring that all legal documents are properly prepared and filed, deadlines are met, and your case proceeds smoothly through the court system.

Protecting Your Rights and Interests

Divorce can impact various aspects of your life, including property division, alimony, child custody, and support arrangements. A skilled lawyer can safeguard your spousal and parental rights and work to protect your financial interests. They can take steps to ensure a fair division of assets and debts, negotiate reasonable spousal support, and develop a custody arrangement that prioritizes the well-being of your children.

Handling Emotional and High-Stakes Situations

Divorce often involves contentious disputes, particularly related to spousal support and child custody. A seasoned divorce lawyer can not only offer legal advice but also provide a level-headed perspective, which can help you minimize conflicts and achieve a fair resolution. They can mediate between you and your spouse and work with the opposing counsel to reach agreements and reduce the potential for prolonged litigation.

Ensuring Legal Compliance

Legal representation ensures that your divorce proceedings comply with Virginia’s legal standards. A lawyer can ensure compliance with all the necessary legal requirements, such as residency qualifications for filing, separation periods, and specific grounds for divorce. Their attention to detail can prevent costly mistakes and delays in the divorce process.

Providing Expert Advice and Support

Throughout the divorce process, your lawyer can offer emotional support and expert advice tailored to your unique circumstances. They can help you evaluate settlement offers, prepare for court appearances, and address any concerns that arise. Their expertise can be instrumental in navigating the complexities of your case and achieving a satisfactory outcome.

Take the First Step Towards a New Beginning with Pack Law Group

Are you considering filing for divorce and feeling overwhelmed by the process? At the Pack Law Group, our dedicated team of Virginia family law attorneys is here to support you every step of the way. We provide exceptional legal representation to individuals seeking divorce and other complex family law matters.

Our lawyers bring years of experience and a deep understanding of family law to every case. We are committed to achieving the best possible outcomes for our clients, no matter how complex the situation may be. Contact us today at 540-586-7225 or contact us online to schedule a confidential consultation with a member of our legal team.