Divorce Roundup for 2018
In the past year, Americans have seen a fair amount of uncertainty, turmoil and change. Some events may impact the legal decisions facing divorcing spouses in the near future, while other events point to cultural changes that may positively touch the lives of one or both spouses who have chosen to dissolve their marriage.
For our first post of the new year, it seems appropriate to review some information we shared during 2018. Although some of the things we have shared with our West Michigan neighbors has been light-hearted, other posts have addressed critical issues facing the people in the Grand Rapids area who might be considering or going through a divorce.
Our 2018 highlights include:
Divorce Rate Decline
Divorce rates have seen a decline over the past several years, with much of that change attributed to the Millennial’s approach to marriage. With a more results-driven, goal-oriented attitude toward marriage, Millennials are marrying later in life, and divorcing less often.
Dropping Divorce Rates Influenced by Millennials
Modern Technology, Social Media, and Divorce
Todays’ technology and its occasional overuse can lead to marital problems and also provide attorneys and litigants with evidence that can be used on either side of a case. Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and other social media outlets often show proof of everything from hidden property to infidelity.
There have been some helpful technological advancements too, with the rise of smartphone apps and websites that help with co-parenting and communication, such as Our Family Wizard and the like.
Social Media can be Divorce Case Evidence
New Divorce Trends – Online Apps
Cultural Changes, Acceptance, and Divorce
Public sentiment towards divorce has changed dramatically over the last several decades, with television and other media sources contributing to the shift. TV shows like One Day at a Time and even I Love Lucy showed the public that divorced spouses were still human beings with regular problems, undeserving of the stigma and scorn so often directed their way.
The Power of Mediation for Divorcing Couples
Stay Together for the Kids? Many Kids say No
Divorce and Friendship – Who gets The Smiths?
New Options Available to Divorcing Spouses
Divorce does not have to be the adversarial, “winner take all” contest it once may have been for many divorcing spouses. Newer options, such as Collaborative Divorce, and more common options, like arbitration, and mediation, offer divorcing couples and family lawyers a way to work together, protect their relationships, and create better outcomes for children.
The History of Collaborative Divorce
Collaborative Divorce: A Gentler Process, A Better Answer
Collaborative Divorce Revisited
Gentler Approach to Difficult Issues
New Tax Laws, Finances, and Divorce
Tax code changes that take effect in the new year may change the way spouses approach issues like spousal support and alimony. With the tax responsibility shifting from one side to the other, new financial considerations make it more important than ever to discuss the divorce process and outcome with an experienced divorce attorney.
New Tax Laws May Affect Alimony Settlements
Divorce and Financial Considerations
How the New Tax Code may Impact Children of Divorce
The Impact of Changing Tax Laws on Divorce
If you are considering divorce in 2019, please consult with a divorce lawyer before taking any steps forward. In Grand Rapids, Michigan, please contact the experienced divorce attorneys at Johnsen Wikander today and let us help you through your most difficult time.
