Divorces Delayed by Cost of Living Crisis, Lawyers Report

Lawyers have observed that couples are delaying divorces due to the ongoing cost of living crisis, a trend corroborated by recent figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) for England and Wales. These ONS figures, released on Wednesday, indicate that the average marriage ending in divorce lasted for 13 years in 2025. This marks the longest duration since records commenced in 1963, representing a significant increase from the record low of 8.9 years observed in 1985. The ONS data highlights a consistent upward trend in marriage longevity prior to divorce over the past four decades, with the average duration steadily increasing from 1985 onwards. This extended period before marital dissolution is now being directly linked by legal professionals to the prevailing economic conditions.

Family law practitioners have noted a marked reluctance among clients to initiate divorce proceedings, citing the substantial financial implications involved. These costs encompass legal fees, the potential division of assets, and the establishment of separate households, all of which have become more burdensome amidst rising inflation and economic uncertainty. Lawyers suggest that many couples are choosing to remain married, at least temporarily, to avoid the immediate financial strain associated with separation and divorce. This pragmatic approach, driven by economic necessity, means that the decision to divorce is being postponed rather than abandoned entirely, suggesting a potential future increase in divorce rates once economic conditions improve.

The economic pressures are multifaceted, affecting not only the direct costs of legal proceedings but also the broader financial landscape for individuals. Increased mortgage rates, higher energy bills, and the general rise in the cost of essential goods and services are forcing households to re-evaluate their spending and long-term financial planning. For couples contemplating divorce, these economic realities can make the prospect of dividing assets and managing finances independently appear daunting, leading to a decision to maintain the status quo. This phenomenon is not unique to England and Wales, and similar trends may be observed in other regions experiencing comparable economic challenges.

The ONS data, which tracks divorce statistics annually, provides a quantitative measure of this evolving marital landscape. The 13-year average in 2025 signifies a substantial shift from previous decades, reflecting societal and economic changes that influence relationship decisions. While the ONS attributes the data to the formal dissolution of marriages, legal experts are providing the qualitative context, explaining the underlying reasons for the observed statistical anomaly. The current economic climate is thus acting as a significant, albeit temporary, deterrent to divorce, reshaping patterns of marital dissolution in England and Wales.