Study about pre-wedding jitters may have family law concerns

Many Californians may be familiar with the wedding jitters that happen to some couples before they tie the knot. Recent research shows that these jitters not only can affect the future of a relationship but also have long-term family law concerns.

In two different studies, researchers found that experiencing cold feet before a wedding could be a warning of an unhappy married life. On the other hand, being certain about marrying a partner could be an indicator of a blissful married life. The first study was done by researchers from Kansas State University and the University of Alberta, who observed 610 newlywed couples.

Researchers at UCLA supported the recent findings when they analyzed how married life turned out for those couples who have pre-marital doubts. Of more than 230 recently married couples in the UCLA study, 38 percent of wives and 47 percent of husband declared uncertainty about the wedding. The study found that women who have cold feet are more likely to file for divorce four years after marriage than women who were certain about their wedding decisions. In addition, the hesitant couples who remained married were less satisfied with their married life.

Researchers also discussed why some uncertain individuals married anyway. They noted that these persons may not be ready to change their mind for various reasons such as peer pressure. Moreover, the counselor noted that pre-wedding jitters do not always mean there will be an unhappy marriage. These feelings may be just another emotional element tied to other reasons.

Family law concerns can involve the resolution of child custody, paternity, alimony and property division. Couples in the process of divorce should make decisions based on the best interests of everyone involved, especially children.

The two university studies may explain some divorces, and they may be useful in resolving conflicts and family law issues. However, discussing the details of a particular marital situation is best handled by a legal professional that understands the laws within the state where the couple resides.

Source: The Globe and Mail, “Wedding day cold feet? Divorce may be in the cards,” Wency Leung, Nov. 8, 2012