Statistics released by the Scottish Government have revealed that divorce rates are highest in Shetland, one of the most northerly parts of Scotland. The average divorce rate across Scotland was found to be 2.8%, but this was more than double in Shetland with a divorce rate of 5.7%.
Other areas above the national average included South Lanarkshire at 4.7% and Glasgow at 3.6%.
The statistics are the result of the Scottish Government’s Scottish Surveys Core Questions which pooled data from three major surveys and interviewed over 21,000 people. This is the largest survey of its kind in Scotland and it aims to provide unprecedented insight into the lives of Scottish people.
The survey also revealed that more and more people living in Scotland’s major cities are deciding not to marry. In Glasgow 47.2% of adults described themselves as “never married singles” and in Edinburgh this figure was at 41.7%.
The group who described themselves as “never-married singles” is likely to contain a high number of cohabiting adults. The Office for National Statistic has reported that there are 5.9 million people cohabiting in the UK. This is double the number in 1996 and cohabitation rates are expected to continue to grow.
January Divorce Enquiry Spike
The release of these divorce statistics coincides with the busiest month for divorce lawyers. The post-Christmas period typically sees family lawyers busier than ever before due to the pressures of the festive period. Some couples may try to stay together for one last family Christmas, but a long Christmas break spent with just the family can make any relationship problems very clear. Christmas can also be an extremely expensive time and money worries can intensify any relationship problems.
After a difficult Christmas, many couples may decide it is best for them to part company in the New Year.
Divorcing in Scotland
When a couple are divorcing in Scotland the usual first step is to arrange a Minute of Agreement. This is a contract that stipulates the terms of the separation. Normally a solicitor will be instructed to draw up the arrangement. This can cover property, financial matters such as debts and living arrangements for any children of the couple. This can help to clear up the day to day practicalities of separation and can make an eventual divorce easier, quicker and cheaper.
To divorce you must show that the marriage has irretrievably broken down. This can be demonstrated by: one year's continuous non-cohabitation with the consent of the other party; two year's continuous non-cohabitation (consent is not required); unreasonable behaviour on the part of the other party or adultery on the part of the other party.
A divorcing couple can follow the Simplified procedure if they both agree about the financial matters and have no children under the age of 16. The Ordinary procedure is available for more complicated cases.
Family Law Inverness
Family Law Inverness is operated on behalf of Kathleen McCarthy. Kathleen is a caring and compassionate family lawyer who treats every enquiry with confidentiality.
Call us on 01463 548 850 or contact us online.
