A Schaumburg couple recently started talking about getting divorced. During the course of their 10-year marriage, they have seen ups and downs, but lately the downs seem to be most prevalent. The wife recently learned about a number of credit cards that the husband had opened without her knowledge, and the debt they now owe is causing intense stress on them both. She is furious that he has breached her trust, and she blames him for their marriage ending. She wonders if her husband’s financial irresponsibility will give her a leg up in her divorce negotiations.
Researchers say that 40% to 50% of all first marriages in the United States will end in divorce. Not surprisingly, 60% of second marriages end in divorce. Does this mean that marriage is just a game of chance? Some couples have a higher risk of divorce, statistically speaking. Research shows there are various factors associated with couples who are at a higher risk for divorce than others. Understanding these factors may help you understand why you are facing some challenges in your marriage.
Common Divorce Risk-Factors
Divorce is necessary at times, but if you are a parent, for example, you may feel that you have a responsibility to do all that you possibly can to preserve and repair a marriage, especially when the reasons for divorce are not perceived as serious. Barriers to leaving a marriage, such as financial worries and young children, can keep marriages together in the short-term. However, unless there is improvement in the relationship, eventually the barriers are usually not enough to keep a marriage together indefinitely. Commitment to marriage is clearly a factor in why some couples stay together, and why others decide to divorce.
The most common reasons people file for their divorce include:
- Abuse,
- Infidelity,
- Lack of commitment,
- Lack of equality in the relationship,
- Lack of preparation for marriage,
- Marrying too young,
- Too much arguing, and
- Unrealistic expectations.
Illinois Divorce Laws
Not all divorce cases are granted by the court. Each divorce case that is filed in the state of Illinois must declare the grounds in which the divorce is to be granted. That said, Illinois is a no-fault divorce state, meaning that it does not matter whose “fault” it is that the marriage is ending. All the spouses need to show is that irreconcilable differences exist in their marriage, and there is no chance that they could reconcile.
When you are asking the court for a divorce, make sure that you completely understand the grounds of your divorce to avoid any potential legal repercussions. It is recommended to consult with an experienced divorce lawyer before petitioning the court to discuss your best options for moving forward.
Call an Experienced Divorce Lawyer
At Glasgow & Olsson, our goal is to help people file for divorce and to make navigating a complex legal process more manageable. If you need representation for a divorce or child support matter in Cook County, Glasgow & Olsson is here to help. When you need an attorney, experience matters. Contact us today to learn how our experience can get you the results you deserve.