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How High Is California’s Divorce Rate?

The Law Offices of Ronald K. StitchJune 15, 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted just about every aspect of our lives. From affecting the way that we do our everyday shopping to our ability to receive medical care, this pandemic has been unprecedented. Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic has also led to a spike in divorce rates throughout the world. Here, we want to discuss what this could mean for residents in California.

How Has Covid-19 Affected Divorce Rates?

The COVID-19 pandemic has offered a rare opportunity – the ability to see how different communities throughout the world respond to the same disaster. In this case, marriage experts are watching the rising number of divorces in China, Europe, and other areas that have been affected by the pandemic. In most areas around the world, there have been reports of a spike in the divorce rate that began as soon as quarantine and stay-at-home orders went into effect.

A USA TODAY article points out that, until recently, divorce statistics were somewhat positive. Fewer people are getting married in the US, and even fewer have been getting divorced, according to data available from the US Census Bureau. In 2008, the divorce rate was 10.5 per 1,000 women in the US. In 2018, this figure had dropped to 7.7 per 1,000 women in the US.

However, the COVID-19 pandemic has forced people to stay at home with their spouse, and this is likely going to lead to a rise in the divorce rate. Determining official statistics for California’s divorce rate can be challenging. Unlike most other states, California does not release official divorce statistics at the state level. However, we do know that there are some California cities that rank high for rates of divorce already. This includes Oildale, Saratoga, Florence-Graham, Cupertino, Cudahy, and Coachella.

In California, there is a mandatory waiting period of six months from the time a divorce case is started until when a couple can legally end their marriage. California’s waiting period is longer than the waiting period in many other states, and this six month waiting period can be challenging for those who are ready for their marriage to be over. Divorce cases can be difficult, and some of the issues that need to be settled before a divorce can be finalized include:

Why Is An Attorney Necessary For A Westlake Village Divorce Case?

When most people are beginning to think about divorce, their mind often wanders to whether or not they actually need an attorney to help them with the case. At the Law Offices of Ronald K. Stitch, we never pressure anybody into working with an attorney if they do not need one. However, we do offer a consultation so we can discuss the entire divorce process with any prospective client. We want any person who is considering divorce to know that there can be complications. Even in an uncontested divorce situation where both sides may be amicable, there is still often the need to have an attorney handle the situation.

For contested divorces, those in which one or both sides disagree with the various aspects of the divorce, an attorney is going to be an essential element of the process. These cases can become incredibly complex, and if either side does not have an attorney, it could lead to significant financial and emotional struggles throughout the divorce and after a divorce is finalized. A Westlake Village divorce attorney will help ensure you have peace of mind when going through this difficult time.

Has The Covid-19 Pandemic Changed The Divorce Process?

In general, most people will not need to worry about there being any major delays or problems caused by COVID-19 during their divorce process. Early in the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly in the spring and summer of 2020, there were significant court delays. As the court system and law offices around the state were figuring out how to deal with the pandemic, there was certainly plenty of confusion about how to handle ongoing and new divorce cases.

Now, all of us have a pretty decent understanding of the steps involved in ensuring the safety of every party throughout the divorce process. We work to ensure that our clients are safe. We wear masks and ensure proper social distancing inside of our offices. Additionally, our attorneys are available for virtual consultations for your divorce case. The court system in California has also gained an understanding of how to handle court processes in these situations.

Let Our Team Help With Your Divorce Case

If you are going through a divorce or are looking into the possibility of separating from your spouse, you need to seek assistance from an attorney as soon as possible. Divorce cases can become complicated, but the team at the Law Offices of Ronald K. Stitch is ready to stand by your side. We can handle every aspect of your divorce case, from asset division and alimony to child support and child custody. You do not have to go through this alone. When you need a compassionate Westlake Village divorce attorney, you can contact us for a free consultation by clicking here or by calling 818-237-4574.

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