California Divorce Rate [Updated 2024]

Divorce has never been easy. Many couples feel shame in admitting that their marriage has failed, in addition to all the other stresses and emotions attached to dissolving a marriage. Understanding some of the common elements that factor into the California divorce rate over recent years and the specific trends that have resulted can help you reach the most amicable resolution possible with your spouse and appropriately move forward with your lives.

Divorce Rate in California

In 2022, California’s divorce rate was 5.88 per 1,000, meaning that approximately six people out of every 1,000 got divorced that year. This figure shows a steady decline over the years in California and throughout the United States.

Much of the reason for the declining rates may be due to lower rates of marriage, not divorce. The overall number of people getting married each year has been steadily dropping, and many people have been waiting longer to get married, both of which have contributed to the decreased divorce rate. The societal norm of marriage has become less appealing for many people, so the benefits of waiting longer have also made a significant impact.

Common Factors That Influence California Divorce Rates

Since every marriage is unique, so is every divorce and the elements that subsequently lead to a dissolution of marriage. However, there are several common factors that can influence the rate of divorce in California.

Here are some of the common reasons that influence California divorce rates:

• Financial Stress: Money problems have long been one of the top reasons couples divorce. Financial issues can cause significant strain on a marriage, which often leads to unwanted stress and more frequent arguments. Couples who are more financially secure tend to divorce less.
• Age: Couples who get married at younger ages are generally more likely to get divorced, particularly those between the ages of 20 and 25. This is often associated with couples being more mature and developing better communication and problem-solving skills as they age.
• Infidelity: Marital infidelity is one of the more common reasons that lead to divorce. Although some couples can recover from cases of infidelity, it’s uncommon.
• Lack of Commitment: Over time, many people notice a diminished commitment to their spouse and the day-to-day challenges of maintaining a marriage.
• Parental Differences: Many couples will stay married for longer because they want their children to grow up in a two-parent household. However, some marriages ultimately fail due to differences in parenting style or the added responsibilities of raising a child becoming too straining on their relationship.
• Differing Values: Lack of general compatibility and differences in values can significantly affect the length of a marriage. As people grow and change, so can their priorities, goals, and lifestyles.

It’s important to note that the above reasons that influence divorce rates in California are only some of the many elements that ultimately lead to divorces, as every relationship has different circumstances, and in many cases, marriages can end as a result of multiple issues.

If you are considering divorce, then it’s of vital importance that you consult with a trustworthy divorce lawyer who can guide you through all of your options and ensure that you make a decision that makes the most sense for your unique circumstances. They can help you reach a divorce agreement with favorable terms regarding property division, spousal support, child support, and child custody.

FAQs

Q: Is California a 50/50 Divorce State?

A: Yes, California is a 50/50 divorce state when it comes to the division of marital property. This means that any property acquired during the marriage would be split equally between the spouses in the event of a divorce. However, in certain cases, the court may rule that assets, including property, be divided in a more equitable way, depending on various factors.

Q: What Is the 10-Year Rule for Divorce in California?

A: Contrary to common belief, divorcing a spouse of 10 or more years does not automatically result in permanent spousal support; however, dissolving a marriage that lasted 10 or more years does permit judges to retain decision-making authority, according to the California Family Code. It states that the court has jurisdiction during dissolution or separation proceedings when the spouses have been married for a long time.

Q: What Is a Wife Entitled to in a Divorce in California?

A: In California, a wife may be entitled to 50% of all marital property, which means that they would receive an equal share of all marital assets, including real estate, income, and vehicles that were acquired throughout the course of the marriage. They may also be entitled to spousal and child support, depending on the individual spouse’s financial situation and other relevant circumstances.

Q: How Long Is the Average Divorce in California?

A: According to state laws, California divorces have a mandatory six-month waiting period. This waiting period is in place to provide the spouses with time to reconcile, if possible, or reach an amicable divorce agreement on their own. If both parties agree on every aspect of their separation, then the divorce proceeding will be completed in six months.

Other factors, including the complexities of the case (particularly if children are involved), will extend the length of the divorce. In those cases, the divorce proceedings can be fifteen months or more.

Consulting With a Trusted California Divorce Attorney

If you are looking to dissolve your marriage and move forward with your life, then it’s paramount that you consult with a reputable family lawyer with direct experience handling divorce cases in California. Our team of experienced divorce lawyers can help you navigate the complexities of the divorce process while approaching each unique case with diligence and compassion to ensure the most favorable outcome possible.

At All American Law, you can use a consultation to confidently explore all of your options and determine a solution that is ideal for you and your family. Regardless of the reason for divorce, everyone deserves the chance to seek a fresh start.

Contact us today and schedule a consultation with our team.