Going through a divorce is a difficult time in anyone’s life, but for many people, it’s inevitable and often even the best choice. While the divorce process can be incredibly stressful, it generally means a fresh start and can eventually eliminate some of the stress of staying in an unhealthy relationship.
Going through the divorce process is even harder for those who do not have a full understanding of the legal and financial ramifications that can come with ending a marriage. However, learning about the divorce rates and the divorce process can help alleviate some of the anxiety surrounding this major life event.
Divorce rates in Orange County are very high. In fact, they’re among the highest of any county in California. While no one wants to think about a divorce happening to them or their family, it’s important that we have some knowledge on how common it is and what factors can lead to a higher chance of divorce. When you know what you’re up against, it can make the process of getting through a divorce that much easier.
Understanding the Orange County Divorce Rate
People in Orange County experience a very high divorce rate. In fact, the county has been ranked as having some of the highest divorce rates in California and even across all of America. On average, 33 people in Orange County begin the process of a divorce every single day. The divorce rate in Orange County has increased over the years and is expected to continue to rise.
What Are Common Reasons Why People Want a Divorce?
There are many reasons why a couple would choose to end their marriage. While some marriages end tragically due to infidelity, others simply end because of irreconcilable differences. Irreconcilable differences are defined as the inability to reach an agreement due to conflicting interests or values. This can be a big factor in determining the chances of divorce. In California, irreconcilable differences is a very common reason cited in many couples’ divorces. When there are significant differences in a marriage, it is often difficult to overcome them and to make the marriage work. When a couple has taken all reasonable steps to reconcile, including counseling and mediation, etc., then irreconcilable differences may be cited as the basis for a divorce.
Division of assets, child custody, and spousal support are some other reasons why people file for divorce. The division of assets refers to the process in which marital property is divided between the divorcing couple, including the division of retirement accounts and real estate. Child custody refers to who has the legal responsibility for making important decisions regarding the children, such as where they will attend school and what type of medical care they should receive. Spousal support refers to money one spouse pays the other after a divorce for financial support.
These are just some of the most common reasons why people file for divorce in Orange County, California. If you or your partner are considering a divorce, it is important to start speaking with a seasoned family law attorney that can help guide you through the process.
What Can You Do to Prevent a Divorce?
The best way to prevent a divorce from happening is by avoiding the common issues that lead to one. If you and your spouse can avoid these types of issues, such as infidelity, drug and alcohol abuse, gambling addictions, financial irresponsibility, and more, then you will be better positioned to avoid a divorce.
In order to avoid these issues, it is important for a couple to be open and honest with each other about any type of potential infidelity or irreconcilable differences. If you can be honest with your spouse and yourself about these things, then you increase your likelihood of avoiding divorce.
Another important thing you can do is to make sure that both spouses are willing and able to work together to make the marriage work. This can be difficult if you or your spouse are experiencing an emotional, physical, or financial issue. If this is happening to you, then it is important to seek help in order for your marriage to work. Seeking help for mediation can be difficult if you or your spouse are embarrassed about the issue. If you feel embarrassed about the issue, then it is important to overcome that feeling and seek help from a professional for your marriage to work.
Be Honest With Your True Feelings
Sometimes, it is difficult to be honest with yourself or your spouse about your true feelings. If you are having difficulty being open and honest, then speaking with a professional counselor or therapist can help. It is important to be open and honest with your spouse, as well as yourself, about how you feel. Even with the best of intentions and willingness to try anything, sometimes you just lose the same feelings for someone that you used to have when beginning the marriage. If a genuine attempt at marriage counseling, support groups, and allowing enough time to regain the spark has not worked, then it may be time to consider a divorce. While there is a stigma around divorce, it is important to be aware that sometimes there are legitimate reasons for divorcing your spouse. If you and your spouse have irreconcilable differences and have taken all reasonable steps to reconcile, then it would be healthier to look past stereotypes and do what is best for yourselves and your extended family.
How Can a Lawyer Assist the Process of Divorce?
When you are getting a divorce, it is important to work with an experienced family law attorney that can help guide you through the process. If your spouse is not willing to work with you on your terms, then the attorney can help settle issues of child custody and spousal support. It may also be possible to negotiate child support, spousal support, and alimony without going through the court system.
For more information on the process of divorce, legal considerations, and support and resources in Orange County, connect with the Law Offices of Dorie A. Rogers to get started.
