5 Common Reasons That Marriages End in Divorce

The U.S. has one of the highest divorce rates globally, with 2.3 divorces per 1,000 residents. The country also has high divorce rates for subsequent marriages, with 60% of second marriages and 73% of third marriages ending in divorce.

For those many struggling marriages, divorce may be a necessary option. This article will tackle some of the most common causes of divorce.

Infidelity

Extramarital affairs are one of the leading causes of divorce. Whether it was a single incident or a long-term affair, infidelity often leads to separation.

In a General Social Survey, out of the 441 people who admitted to cheating, 54.5% immediately separated after the truth came out. While 30% tried to work it out but eventually separated, 15.6% of married couples stayed together.

Financial Incompatibility

Differences in spending habits and attitudes toward money are another top reason couples get divorced. According to a study published in the Family Relations journal, disagreements about finances were the strongest predictor of divorce compared to other types of marital arguments.

Abuse

Abuse comes in many forms, not just physical. Any act aimed at demeaning the other party, like yelling, neglect, vulgar comments, denying money, and displays of anger, is considered abuse.

It also does not have to be directed to the spouse. Harmful behavior toward children, siblings, and other family members who live in the same house may influence a spouse to initiate a divorce.

Lack of Intimacy

Physical intimacy is considered an essential part of long-term romantic relationships like marriage. It does not necessarily have to mean sex—physical intimacy may come in the form of displays of affection, kisses, hugs, massages, and words.

Over time, desire may wane, and physical attraction toward each other may fade. The resulting lack of physical intimacy may then result in a divorce.

Addiction

According to Addiction Center, Americans from 25 to 34 years old have some of the highest drug addiction and overdose rates. Apart from being a significant social and national health problem, substance abuse can also result in divorce.

Substance abuse is strongly linked to domestic violence. It may also cause other reasons for a failed marriage, such as financial problems due to the high cost of drugs, alcohol, or other substances a person may be addicted to. Addiction may also be non-substance—examples of behavioral addictions include gambling, pornography, and shopping.

Grounds for Filing a Divorce

In New York, a person who wishes to divorce their spouse may file either a no-fault divorce or they file for divorce with certain grounds being met.

Ground Divorce

A spouse who proves that the other spouse committed an act that resulted in the failure of their marriage may be granted a grounds divorce. New York is one of the remaining states that allow divorces on fault grounds. However, considering the ability to file for no-fault this is very uncommon.

Fault-based grounds for divorce include:

• Adultery
• Cruel and inhuman treatment (such as physical and mental abuse) that make it impossible for the married couple to continue living together
• Abandonment lasting for at least one year
• Constructive abandonment for a period of at least two years
• Incarceration for three or more years after the parties were married

No-Fault Divorces

In a no-fault divorce, neither spouse has to prove that the other one was responsible for the failure of the marriage. It is the option commonly chosen by divorcing couples who have significant differences. All that is required for this type of divorce is a statement, included in the divorce papers and spoken under oath, that the marriage has been irretrievably broken for at least the last six months.

It is also critical, especially to the judge, for the divorcing parties to have already come to an agreement regarding matters such as custody and child support. Otherwise, the judge may not grant the divorce.

Trusted Divorce Lawyer on Long Island

Filing a divorce is not a simple process. Apart from the emotions involved, issues such as distribution of marital property, spousal support, and custody and visitation will also need to be resolved. Having a lawyer guide you and look out for your best interests will help make the process of filing a divorce less stressful.

You can rely on the team at The Law Offices of Ian S. Mednick, P.C. for compassionate legal counsel and diligent representation during this difficult time. We have more than 15 years of experience in Long Island family courts, and we are dedicated to pursuing the best possible outcome for our clients. Contact us today to learn more about our services.