60 plus divorce trend set to grow claims leading Coalville lawyers
An increase in over 60s divorcing is a trend likely to continue claims one of the region’s most eminent family lawyers.
A survey just released by the Office for National Statistics showed the number of over-60s in England and Wales has been on the increase since the 1990s, contrasting with falling divorce rates in the rest of the population.
Kathryn Hicklin, a partner at QualitySolicitors Mander Cruickshank said part of the explanation was because of an ageing population there are more over-60s than there were.
“We are living longer and because of this 60 is the new 50,” said Ms Hicklin, whose firm have offices in both Coalville and Hinckley.
“However, less stigma over being divorced, and more financial independence for women is also part of the reason for this change,” she added
In 1991, there were 1.6 divorces per 1,000 married men over 60, figures released by the ONS showed, but by 2011, the latest year for which figures are available, this had risen to 2.3.
There were 1.2 divorces per 1,000 married women over 60 in 1991, rising to 1.6 in 2011.
However, overall divorce rates for all married men fell from 13.6 per 1,000 to 10.8 over the same period, and the trend was similar for women.
Ms Hicklin said in general, women are now more able to support themselves outside of marriage than in the past”
“It is sad but simply not uncommon in this era to see couples drift apart as a result of ’empty nest syndrome’, when their children have grown up and moved out of the family home.
“This can be a catalyst between a couple and bring about issues which may have been suppressed by their responsibilities to their children.
“Also people are living longer lives and simply wish to have other relationships whereby in the past couples may have felt compelled to stay together in old age.
She added that QualitySolicitors Mander Cruickshank are acutely aware of the sensitivities surrounding such splits.
“The issues involved can be quite different, but as very experienced family law specialists we are aware of the turmoil involved and can help bring about a solution best for all parties,” she added.
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