Top 6 Reasons for Divorce in Pennsylvania
As a Pennsylvania divorce attorney, I see failed marriages on a regular basis. I find that many of my clients tend to give similar reasons for their decision to divorce. Research has shown that the top six reasons for divorce in Pennsylvania are as follows.
Communication Breakdown
Communication is an essential ingredient for any healthy and lasting relationship, especially marriage. Open, honest lines of communication can be difficult to maintain. When a husband and wife find themselves unable to communicate effectively, the foundation of a marriage tends to chip away. Eventually, without effective communication, many couples find their relationship beyond the possibility of reconciliation and opt for a divorce.
Unfortunately, this lack of communication tends to continue throughout the divorce process. Pennsylvania divorces based around this issue tend to drag out because the parties find it difficult to reach a mutually acceptable settlement agreement.
Abuse
When either a husband or a wife is abusive toward children or one another, the other spouse has clear grounds for divorce. Abuse can take many forms, including physical, verbal, emotional and sexual abuse. Experts generally agree that the best option for anyone in an abusive situation is usually divorce, as remaining in the relationship subjects the victim to a high risk of further abuse. There are many free legal resources available to victims of domestic abuse through county offices in Pennsylvania. For example, in Montgomery County, PA, you can call the toll-free Domestic Violence Hotline for assistance at (800) 773-2424.
Financial Problems
Nearly every married couple has to deal with financial troubles at some point. When money is tight and bills begin to pile up, different priorities can quickly lead to heated arguments. Financial strain, debt and disagreements over finances can put a great deal of stress on even the happiest marriage. Some couples are able to make lifestyle changes such as a change in spending habits or a new job in order to resolve financial problems, but when this is not possible, the result is often a divorce.
Addiction
Addiction is an all-too-common problem that destroys relationships on a regular basis. Addiction is broadly defined as persistent compulsive use of a substance known by the user to be harmful (merriam-webster.com). There are many different types of addictions. People struggle with addictions to substances, such as alcohol or drugs, as well as gambling, shopping, the internet, etc. Addiction can lead to erratic behavior and even abuse. Many times, addiction issues also create a strain on a couple’s finances, adding to the already tense marriage.
Parenting Differences
Once a married couple has children, it may become apparent that each parent has a different idea of how to raise them in mind. Religious and/or cultural differences may become accentuated as parents of different backgrounds raise their children. Spouses need to reconcile differences in goals and opinions in order to have a happy future together, but when parenting styles differ, this can be difficult, and tension can build as a result. When differences become irreconcilable, couples seek a divorce.
It is important to keep in mind that if you are unable to parent effectively together while you are married, it is not realistic to expect this to improve suddenly after a divorce. On the contrary, this issue will usually get much worse.
Post-divorce, one of your best defenses against continuing conflict is to have an effective parenting plan in place. This will be of particular importance when your children want both parents to attend important events. While this may not be ideal, it is something that will definitely benefit your children in the long run.
Infidelity
Marital infidelity is often cited as the most common reason for divorce. In Pennsylvania, infidelity, or extramarital sex, is grounds for a fault-based divorce. Infidelity will not affect a Pennsylvania court’s determinations regarding child custody, child support or equitable division of marital property. However, unfaithfulness can be taken into consideration by a court when it comes to awarding alimony or spousal support.
Regardless of the nature of the marital problems you are facing, do not hesitate to seek advice from a local divorce lawyer. No matter where you are in the divorce process, an experienced Pennsylvania divorce attorney can provide you with answers to your questions and suggestions on how to deal with the divorce process, laws and requirements.
For more information about PA divorce and other Pennsylvania family law issues, please consult our PA Family Law practice page.
Jason Martin, Esq. is an experienced PA family law attorney who assists clients seeking divorce, child custody, child support, spousal support and alimony in Montgomery County, Bucks County, Chester County, Delaware County and Philadelphia County. Contact The Martin Law Firm for a no-obligation, confidential consultation.