As someone who navigated an amicable divorce, I can attest that the process was still quite challenging. My ex-spouse and I managed to reach agreements independently, enlisting just one attorney to formalize our custody arrangement and asset division. I consider myself fortunate to have avoided a lengthy litigation process, which several friends have endured for many months or even longer.
Introducing a global pandemic into such an emotionally taxing situation only heightens the challenges. In hindsight, I feel grateful that my marriage ended before we were engulfed in a crisis.
The ongoing battle with COVID-19 has transformed virtually every facet of our lives: from grocery shopping to socializing, working, and sanitizing. It’s inevitable that this will also reshape the divorce process.
According to recent reports from ABC News, family law professionals anticipate a rise in divorce rates attributable to the pandemic, citing a notable increase in inquiries and electronic filings. Sarah Thompson, president of the National Association of Matrimonial Lawyers, explained, “We’re receiving calls from couples who are simply exhausted from being confined together.”
However, those stuck in a discordant home environment may face extended delays in the divorce process. As jurisdictions gradually reopen, the backlog of cases will likely prolong the timeline. As legal expert Mark Anderson noted in a message, “Typically, a divorce can be finalized within 90 days, but due to the current standstill, we might see these cases stretching well into 2021.”
Delays aren’t the only hurdles for couples seeking to separate. Additional complications are emerging that we haven’t encountered before. Anderson elaborated that individuals moving out of a shared home may struggle to find new rentals. “Landlords are cautious about showing properties and are concerned about tenants’ ability to pay, while mortgage lenders are tightening their approval processes,” he said. This means that some may need to remain in their current living situation longer than anticipated or explore alternative arrangements, such as a “nesting” approach for custody purposes, at least temporarily.
For parents, custody disputes are already arising. “We’re observing a divide between parents who strictly adhere to social distancing protocols and those who are more relaxed, operating as they did before the pandemic,” Anderson stated. These disagreements are projected to escalate as restrictions ease, leading to conflicts over the safety of extracurricular activities and community gatherings.
The current and future job landscape is another factor influencing those considering divorce. Anderson pointed out that this uncertainty makes it “challenging to establish long-term child or spousal support amounts without clarity on future earnings or whether recent income levels will stabilize.”
If you suspect your partner may file for divorce soon, Anderson recommends taking proactive steps now to minimize future conflict. Virtual mediation and arbitration are viable options; these methods not only expedite the resolution process but also help reduce the anticipated backlog. He also advises gathering essential documentation—such as bank statements and property titles—early, as these can take time to acquire.
Ending a marriage is inherently painful, and navigating this process during and after a pandemic introduces additional complexities. COVID-19 has impacted every aspect of our lives, and for those looking to change their marital status, it presents yet another difficult challenge to face. For further insights on this topic, you may want to check out more information in our post about navigating relationships during tough times.
In summary, the divorce landscape is evolving due to COVID-19, with increased inquiries, potential delays, and new challenges like housing and custody disputes. As couples grapple with these changes, understanding the implications of the pandemic on divorce can help them better prepare for what lies ahead.