Many working couples spend a large part of their day away from home and each other, yet their marriage works just fine. During the coronavirus pandemic, however, spouses were forced to see each other 24/7. In some cases, people had little interaction with the outside world. When faced with isolation and fear, some couples grow stronger while others watch as cracks in their relationship seem to grow each day. As we recover from the recent public health emergency, will COVID-19 divorce become more common?
What We Are Currently Seeing
Couples with strong marriages and good coping techniques may weather the storm. However, relationships already strained by common issues may reach the breaking point after three months of being cooped up with spouses, children, pets, and perhaps extended family members. Unfortunately, domestic violence and child abuse also rose during coronavirus quarantines as government restrictions forced people to stay home.
People who were planning to divorce before the coronavirus hit may have delayed filing because court systems and law offices were closed or only working part-time. In fact, meeting with a judge or an attorney became almost impossible as pandemic protocols banned face-to-face meetings.
As the emergency seems to be ending, courts and law offices are receiving more calls about filing for divorce.
The Future of COVID-19 Divorce
There are many reasons people might want to divorce right now. Some spouses may see – for the first time – what it would be like to retire with their current spouse. Some do not like what they see and choose to divorce. Others decide it is time to embrace life and keep only positive things in their lives.
Many attorneys and law firms predict a dramatic rise in divorce filings as soon courts begin to reopen. Although “COVID-19” will not be listed as the reason for the divorce, it will certainly play a contributing role.
Are You Heading for a COVID-19 Divorce?
Divorce is rarely an easy process, at least from an emotional standpoint. Maybe you were headed for divorce before the pandemic, or maybe COVID-19 was just the final straw in a long line of straws. Either way, talk to an experienced California divorce lawyer before proceeding.
The attorneys at the Law Offices of Judy L. Burger are experienced at all phases of divorce, legal separation, and annulment. Call us at 415-293-8314 to schedule a private appointment or visit our website. We maintain offices in San Francisco, San Diego, Beverly Hills, Marin County, Santa Barbara, Ventura/Oxnard, San Jose, Gold River (Sacramento), and surrounding communities.