Readers of our Worcester family law blog may be interested to know that new information related to divorce trends was gathered in a recent study. It is estimated that nearly one million divorces occur every year on a national scale. The study also found many of the participants have apprehension about getting married because of the possibility of divorce.
Among the 50 states, several continue to see high divorce rates. However, it may come as a surprise to many that the Massachusetts divorce rate is among the lowest in the country. Despite these findings, divorce will undoubtedly continue to be a common legal reality for Massachusetts couples.
Despite traditional notions about divorce, a drawn out and costly court battle can be avoided. Worcester couples often use tools such as mediation and collaborative law to streamline the divorce process and avoid lengthy disputes. An impartial mediator can assist a couple in resolving issues over the division of marital property and debts. Mediation is also commonly used by parents in a divorce to settle issues related to child support, child custody and visitation.
Every case is unique, and mediation may not be appropriate for all situations. Some couples reach an impasse and are unable to agree on an issue. Likewise, a judge may be called to make a decision in a complex case involving a high-asset divorce. Business owners also face unique issues in a divorce, where a court may be needed to make a decision regarding valuation of assets and the division thereof. Regardless of your situation, a family law professional can examine your case and determine a feasible way to move forward with divorce.
Source: Business 2 Community, “Divorce trends in the United States,” Brian Wallace, Jan. 25, 2013