Divorce is a word few people like to talk about, but the reality is that a large number of marriages still end in dissolution. While there is no magic formula that can predict whether a couple will eventually seek to end their marriage, there are some common reasons that people end up filing for divorce. Here are the 7 top causes of divorce in New Jersey.
By far, one of the top reasons for divorce in New Jersey is a lack of communication. A breakdown in communication can lead to resentment, causing cracks in the foundation of the relationship. According to Explore Psychology, a lack of communication can lead to arguing and conflict, and was cited as a “key factor” in 70% of divorces in one study.
A lack of communication involves more than simply not discussing difficult topics with a partner. It can include active deceit. Couples who do not talk about their expectations, plans, and problems can experience emotional disconnection that can further deteriorate the bonds of marriage.
It is not always obvious, either. In some instances, avoidance of difficult or even mundane subjects is just a way of life that was ingrained during childhood. Individuals who are afraid of conflict may not openly communicate or unknowingly engage in passive-aggressive behaviors instead of dealing with the issue head on.
Couples hoping to avoid this common pitfall can seek counseling or mediation. Talking to an unbiased third party early on can help to ensure transparency throughout the relationship and avoid conflict down the road.
Financial stress and disagreements are another one of the most common causes of divorce in New Jersey. Financial pressure, spending habits, and a lack of transparency can cause distrust in a relationship and lead to fights, resentment, and potentially divorce. Undoubtedly, financial problems and divorce can go together.
Having honest, frank conversations about money and expectations is critical, but can be challenging. In some instances, it may be beneficial to enter into a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement to ensure that both parties are on the same page.
It is important to note that New Jersey family law requires full financial disclosure during a divorce, so honesty throughout the relationship matters.
In New Jersey, infidelity or adultery is grounds for divorce. In fact, infidelity and divorce often go hand in hand because they deteriorate the trust between the parties. Even cheating that is purely emotional can take a toll on a couple and lead to bitter resentment that eventually causes the marriage to end.
Relationships where one party has been unfaithful often lead to contested divorces. If adultery can be proven, the scorned partner has legal grounds to file for divorce. The behavior of the spouse who was involved in the infidelity can impact the outcome of the case. Due to the sensitive nature of cases involving infidelity, an attorney should be contacted as early in the process as possible.
Another common reason for divorce in New Jersey is emotional or physical abuse. Abuse in a relationship is serious and may have criminal repercussions. Any partner experiencing domestic abuse should seek help immediately, including notifying law enforcement, requesting a protective order, and engaging with a professional counselor.
Physical abuse and emotional neglect can happen in any marriage and must be taken seriously. Abuse is grounds for divorce and should be discussed with an NJ divorce lawyer. Whether you are in a same-sex marriage or a heterosexual relationship, abuse can be dangerous and should be reported.
New Jersey is a no-fault state for divorce, meaning couples do not have to have grounds or a legal reason for divorce. One of the most common reasons people cite is “irreconcilable differences.” Irreconcilable differences may occur because a couple has differing values, has recently engaged in lifestyle changes, or has simply grown apart over time. No matter what the reason, these differences can lead to incompatibility and may result in one or both parties seeking a divorce.
Prior to filing for divorce, individuals may want to seek counseling to try and resolve conflict and communication issues in the marriage. While this does not always work, it can help to provide insight into what a partner is feeling and perhaps why they may be seeking an end to the marriage.
Growing apart is generally not any person’s fault; it may be the evolution of a relationship. This frequently happens when people are at different points in their lives, such as beginning or ending careers, finding a new friend group, or other lifestyle shifts that may affect the marriage.
A difficult obstacle to overcome in a marriage that often leads to divorce is substance abuse or addiction. Substance abuse can affect nearly every aspect of a couple’s life, from their finances and emotional security to their careers and ability to parent. It can affect marriages from every economic tier, including those involving individuals with a high net worth and military families.
Honest communication between partners is essential when dealing with addiction, as trust may have been eroded over time. If a partner has a substance abuse disorder, recovery may be an option. Recovery is not always easy and may involve relapses, which can further test the bonds of trust. Counseling may be necessary and beneficial for both parties and any children involved in the relationship.
Finally, a lack of intimacy or emotional connection is a commonly cited reason for divorce. Both physical and emotional intimacy are important parts of a marriage. Distance can lead to a disconnection that only deepens over time. Counseling before and during a marriage can help to establish expectations and boundaries when it comes to intimacy and promote open communication about those aspects of the relationship.
While a lack of intimacy may be a common reason for divorce, it can also be grounds for an annulment if the person experiences incurable impotence. An annulment differs from a divorce in that it treats the marriage as though it never happened, whereas a divorce is a legal end to the marriage. An annulment is a legal proceeding that should be handled by a knowledgeable family law attorney.
The realization that a marriage has run its course and that divorce is the best option can be difficult. It is never easy to make that kind of decision, but it is important to know that it is not a failure. Instead, divorce may be a step toward healing and independence. It is a new beginning that allows the previous chapter to close.
New Jersey law allows for a number of less contentious options, including mediation, uncontested divorce, and collaborative law, that can help to reduce conflict and save time and money. Understanding the options available to you and your family is crucial.
Divorce is never easy, but it does not have to be filled with contention. In some cases, an amicable resolution can be achieved within the legal system. A NJ divorce lawyer can provide guidance about the different cost-effective and time-saving options available to you and your family.
If you are considering divorce in New Jersey, contact the trusted lawyers at Rozin | Golinder Law at (732) 377-3367 to schedule a consultation. Our NJ divorce attorneys have decades of combined experience. We offer compassionate representation with the guidance and resources you need to make the right decisions for you and your family. Contact us today to get started on your next chapter. Let us help you protect your rights when it comes to divorce. You should not have to go through this alone.
