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Last Modified on Nov 11, 2025
Divorce is a potentially painful process that can impact a lot of lives. Not only does it affect the couple going through said divorce, but also any children they may have, as well as family and friends. Divorce is a lasting decision that should not be taken lightly. The state is a no-fault divorce state, yet the California divorce rate remains low. Contacting a California divorce lawyer may be beneficial, even if you are just interested in exploring your available options.
About Edgar & Dow
When locals need dependable legal assistance, they know they can count on the attorneys at Edgar & Dow. With convenient locations in Anaheim, San Bernardino, and throughout Southern California, we’re there when you need us most. We have experienced divorce lawyers in your neighborhood and from Palm Springs to Menifee; our experience can help win your California divorce case.
We build solid strategies for each specific divorce case we handle for all of our valued clients. We know each case is unique, and we tailor our representation to every divorce proceeding. We are zealous attorneys in the courtroom, but we are friendly, welcoming professionals in our office when meeting confidentially with our clients in a safe space. Give us a call right away to hear about your available divorce options and how we can assist you.
California Divorce Rates
In 2020, the United States Census Bureau reported, the divorce rate in California was approximately 8.9%. By 2021, the Golden State’s divorce rate was down to 5.9. Of note, between 2022 and 2023, California superior courts saw approximately 4.5 million cases filed, including 111,894 marital dissolutions, legal separations, and nullities.
As a result, many couples may need help from a trusted California family lawyer. If you find yourself in this situation, schedule an initial meeting with a reliable attorney at Edgar & Dow to hear more about the first steps to take to protect your legal rights. Even if you’re not ready to formally file for a divorce, we can confidentially discuss your available options at this point.
While it may be good news that the divorce rate appears to be dropping not just in California but nationwide, it is important to note that the marriage rate has been declining in California as well.
This could be due to any number of reasons. Some couples are opting not to marry at all, while others are waiting for their own reasons. An experienced divorce lawyer at our office could guide you through your options.
Factors That Influence Divorce
Every couple that decides to go through with a divorce does so for their own reasons. Whatever happened between them was bad enough to end the marriage. Every couple goes through their own specific turmoil, but here are some general factors that could influence a divorce in most rocky marriages:
- Cultural Differences: A person’s views on marriage are shaped largely by their upbringing, which can sometimes have specific cultural or religious views on marriage and/or divorce. Refusing to acknowledge these differences with your partner early in the relationship can lead to turmoil in the marriage.
- Difference in Age: A substantial difference in age between partners can have a social stigma that could impact the stability of the marriage. An age difference is not always a negative in a relationship, and everybody’s experience is their own. Statistics show that couples who get married in their 20s are more likely to get divorced in their 30s.
- Financial Differences: Money problems are one of the leading causes of divorce, especially when one partner is more financially secure than the other. Arguing about money can get ugly and personal, and some couples think it’s better to separate than to continue having these financial arguments.
- Children: Many couples dealing with marriage problems often decide to stay together for the sake of their children, believing that growing up in a two-parent household grants them a better chance of stability in life. That is not always the case. Every household is different. Some couples opt for divorce for the sake of their children, believing that fostering a negative environment built on parental resentment cannot be good.
- Compatibility Problems: Ultimately, a solid marriage is built on a foundation of compatibility. You want someone who complements your lifestyle and whose lifestyle you can complement in turn. Sharing priorities, values, life lessons, goals, and even hobbies can build a stronger, lasting marriage.
Call a Divorce Lawyer for Reliable Legal Assistance
California divorces can unexpectedly become complicated, and it’s challenging to handle them on your own. To protect yourself and provide peace of mind, hire a lawyer. A lawyer can secure a fair outcome, especially in cases involving significant assets or where child custody or child support is at issue.
With so much at stake, it’s helpful to have an ally who can navigate the situation more objectively, especially in high-emotion divorces. An attorney can help lead to a smoother and more efficient end to your marriage.
FAQs
Does California Have the Highest Divorce Rate?
No, California does not have the highest divorce rate. In fact, the divorce rate in California has been one of the lowest in the country in recent years. According to the most recent data, the state with the highest divorce rate is Arkansas, while the state with the lowest divorce rate is New Hampshire. California is on the lower side these days, with 90 people seeking divorce out of every 1,000 married people.
How Long Do Marriages Last in California?
The average length of a marriage in California is approximately 8.9 years, but that does not guarantee that anybody’s marriage will last anywhere near that long or short, for better or worse. Every marriage is different. Some have problems, some do not. There is no easy way to quantify how long someone’s marriage will last on average, because everyone brings different energy and dedication to their marriage. The couple alone has the power to save or end their marriage.
Is California a 50/50 Divorce State?
Yes, California is a 50/50 divorce state. This means that, in the event of a divorce, any assets acquired during the marriage are split evenly between the parties when dividing property. Some view this as a fair approach, while others see it as brutally unfair, especially if they were the breadwinner who purchased the majority of that property. Some properties may be exempt from this rule through a prenuptial agreement or other legal agreements.
What Is the Number One Cause of Divorce?
According to Forbes, the number one cause of divorce in the United States is a lack of family support, which ranked above infidelity and a lack of compatibility. A lack of family support could mean so many different things, such as a fundamental lack of communication between partners, disagreements over how to parent the children, or a lack of emotional support in sensitive moments. Regardless, not having support is what leads to most divorces.
Is It Hard to Win a Divorce in California?
It can be hard to win a California divorce case, especially if you try to handle your case yourself. “Winning” a divorce case usually requires carefully preparing for your divorce hearing, which usually involves gathering documents to build a compelling case.
When you hire an attorney, they can help explain relevant California law, gather evidence to support your arguments, and negotiate a settlement that’s fair. Reach out to our office to hear about how we help clients win divorce cases.
Hire a Divorce Lawyer – Reach Out to the Edgar & Dow Today
Contact an experienced California divorce lawyer at Edgar & Dow today. We know that facing a divorce is never easy. You may be feeling overwhelmed, angry, confused, even ashamed and embarrassed. Nobody who gets married ever expects to get divorced. However, if you do decide to get divorced or your partner decides for you, it is important to protect yourself by retaining the services of an experienced divorce lawyer.
At Edgar & Dow, we are prepared to offer you sound legal counsel and a wealth of experience in handling divorce cases. Everyone deserves an ally throughout their divorce, especially if it’s complicated or if their spouse has already hired a lawyer. When you have questions, our team is here to answer all of them so you feel prepared to make informed decisions during your divorce proceedings.
If you need to hire a divorce lawyer to discuss your specific situation, contact us to schedule a consultation as soon as you can.
