New research shows the long-term impact of separation
Couples who divorce or separate are likely to find the emotional effects persist for many years, new research shows.
The Australian Institute of Family Studies (AIFS) assessed the impact of major life events on overall satisfaction, and found that separation was one of the most difficult to overcome.
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The AIFS looked at the different pathways that people take in the aftermath of a marriage separation. Individuals who find another partner within a few months of the relationship breakdown were shown to recover more quickly than those who opted to stay out of a new relationship.
The research also showed that women are more vulnerable to a decline in life satisfaction after separation than males. This fall also takes place over a much longer time span, as females start to adjust to the prospect of life without their partner.
Stats demonstrate the frequency of divorce
The latest official divorce figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) reveal that in 2013, a total of 47,638 divorces were granted across the nation. The median duration of a relationship before divorce was 12.1 years, while the median age of divorcees was 44.8 years for men and 42.2 years for women.
In the majority of cases (41.2 per cent), the divorce was filed by joint applicants – meaning both parties agreed to a formal separation. Female applicants comprised 32.9 per cent of cases, while males made up the remaining 25.9 per cent.
The influence of a family lawyer on separation
Because the effects of a separation are felt emotionally for many years, there is a clear incentive for getting your financial and other arrangements in place in the event of a relationship breakdown.
Putting provisions such as binding financial agreement in place could give you some much-needed peace-of-mind in the event of a separation. A family lawyer will be able to draw up these documents to ensure they are legally sound should they ever be needed.
For experienced advice and assistance with separation or divorce, speak to the Family Law team at McCarthy Durie Lawyers here or talk to us on 3370 5100.
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