On behalf of Stange Law Firm, PC posted in Child Custody on Wednesday, July 3, 2013.
In our last post we talked about some divorce trends that many Illinois residents can relate to. These trends include the fact that the overall divorce rate is actually declining, that many older Americans are the ones filing for divorce, and that there are factors — many times outside of one’s control — that lead to divorce.
In speaking of trends though, according to an eLocal.com chart published as part of a Forbes article, it may come as a surprise to some that women are more likely than men to file for divorce. Statistically speaking, 66 percent of divorces are initiated by women.
In looking at the fact that more women than men file for divorce, this most likely has something to do with women wanting child custody. Some may believe that filing first gives them an advantage in the courtroom, which is not necessarily true.
Jeff Landers, a divorce financial strategist, said that over the years he too has noticed some trends, including that two-thirds of divorces are initiated by women. He said that among women who are financially independent and socially accepted, the rate is even higher.
More women being financially independent also ties into why the marriage rate — and consequently divorce rate — is on a downward trend. Back in the day, many women felt like they needed to get married for financial stability. However, now many women are educated and having their own careers and no longer needing a husband to provide for them. This in turn has led to many women choosing not to get married.
In the end though, whether it is the wife that files for divorce, or the husband, both parties need legal representation. This can help with everything from property division to child custody agreements and helps to ensure a fair settlement for everyone.
Source: Forbes, “Not Your Mother’s Divorce: Three 21st Century Trends,” Jeff Landers, June 20, 2013
