California Divorce Rate 2024 – Latest Statistics

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 any children they may have as well as family and friends. Divorce is a lasting decision that should not be taken lightly. California is a no-fault divorce state, but the California divorce rate remains minimal. Contacting a California divorce lawyer may be beneficial, especially if you are just interested in your options.

The California Divorce Rate

According to the most recent census data gathered by the United States Census Bureau, the divorce rate in California, as of 2020, was approximately 8.9%. In addition, the amount of men who were divorced in California was approximately 7.4%, and the amount of women who were divorced in California was approximately 10.7%.

Compared to data from previous years, the divorce rate has been steadily declining since 2014, when the divorce rate in California was around 9.8%. While it may be a good thing that the divorce rate appears to be dropping not just in California but in the United States in general, it is important to note that the marriage rate has been dropping 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 could guide you through your options.

Factors That Influence Divorce

Every couple who decides to go through with a divorce does so because of their own personal reasons. Whatever happened between them, it 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 on in the relationship could lead to turmoil during 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 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 marriage that lasts.

FAQs

Q: Does California Have the Highest Divorce Rate?

A: 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. The state with the highest divorce rate, as per the most recent data, 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.

Q: How Long Do Marriages Last in California?

A: 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 really quantify how long someone’s marriage will last on average because everybody brings different energy and dedication to their marriage. The couple alone has the power to save or end their marriage.

Q: Is California a 50/50 Divorce State?

A: Yes, California is a 50/50 divorce state. This means that, in the event of a divorce, any assets that were acquired during the marriage are split evenly between both parties when dividing up 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.

Q: What Is the Number One Cause of Divorce?

A: According to a survey from Forbes, the number one cause of divorce in the United States was cited as 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 when it is needed most is what leads to most divorces.

Contact an Experienced Divorce Lawyer Today

Facing a divorce is never easy. You may be feeling overwhelmed, angry, confused, even ashamed and embarrassed. Nobody who gets married ever does so expecting 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. Contact us to schedule a consultation as soon as you can.