Ramsden Lawyers Gold Coast Family Law team sheds light on why Queensland holds the top spot for the highest divorce rate in Australia. According to the latest statistics, the crude divorce rate in Queensland for 2021 was 2.6 per 1,000 people, with 13,475 divorces granted to Queenslanders, which is about 14% higher than the 2020 record.

Background

The Gold Coast is now recognised as the most prevalent spot for divorce in Queensland, significantly contributing to one-third of the state’s top 15 southeast locations for divorcees. As per the latest statistics, the typical age bracket of applicants filing for divorce in Queensland is 40 to 49 years old. Interestingly, family lawyers experience their busiest months during December and January, which can be attributed to couples waiting until after the holiday season to separate. The festive season can be emotionally taxing and financially burdensome, ultimately putting pressure on strained relationships. As observed by the Ramsden Lawyers Gold Coast Family Law team in their practice, Christmas time has become a crucial factor for couples to delay divorce proceedings.

Why do Queenslanders call it quits more than any other state or territory?

Significant events or crises, including the Great Depression, World War I and II, and even the COVID-19 pandemic, have been linked to divorce rates. The pandemic has intensified the pressure on relationships that were already experiencing difficulties. Although Queensland has experienced fewer COVID restrictions than other states, the Ramsden Lawyers Family Law team has observed a significant increase in the number of people who have migrated to Queensland during the pandemic, which could contribute to the state’s rising divorce rate.

Factors that can contribute to the rise in divorce rates

Various factors can contribute to stress and tension in a relationship, ultimately leading to a couple deciding to separate. Mental health issues, financial factors such as instability, the rising cost of living, employment circumstances, and domestic and family violence are among the many factors that strain a relationship and cause it to end. The Ramsden Lawyers Family Law team highlights the significance of differentiating between the legal processes of “divorce” and the resolution of property settlements or parenting arrangements for children. While divorce legally ends a marriage, property settlements and parenting arrangements are separate legal procedures that must be resolved to protect the couple’s rights and interests. Seeking legal advice from an experienced family lawyer can help individuals navigate complex legal procedures and understand their rights and responsibilities throughout the process.

The divorce process

When a couple has been separated for 12 months and believes there is no chance of reconciliation, they can apply for a divorce. However, if the couple has been married for less than two years, there are additional requirements they must meet to be eligible for divorce. It’s crucial to remember that every separation is different, and the arising problems will depend on the couple’s unique situation. Seeking legal advice promptly can help address potential issues and protect your rights and interests. It’s also recommended to seek counselling or therapy to manage the emotional and psychological effects of the separation.

Separation: More Than Just Dividing Assets

Separation is a complex process that entails many considerations, and obtaining legal advice early on is essential. While dividing property is a significant concern, other issues exist.

The main issues include deciding how to divide property, determining who will leave the family home, making care arrangements for children, addressing child support, and providing spousal maintenance. Additionally, anyone experiencing domestic or family violence needs assistance.

Beyond these issues, there are other matters to address immediately following separation. Couples should review their Will and Enduring Power of Attorney or Appointment of Enduring Guardian documents. Often, couples appoint each other as executors and beneficiaries or as Attorneys/Guardians during their relationship.

However, updating these documents as soon as possible following separation is essential. Unless you have an amicable relationship with your estranged spouse, you likely don’t want them making important financial, health, or personal decisions for you during the separation process.

An experienced Gold Coast family lawyer can guide you through the complex separation process and ensure that each matter is addressed appropriately.

RAMSDEN LAWYERS – HOW WE CAN HELP WITH MATTERS INVOLVING SEPARATION AND DIVORCE

Ramsden Lawyers provides expert legal assistance to families going through separation, divorce, and disputes. When going through a separation, you must seek guidance from a reliable family lawyer who can help protect your interests and ensure that your divorce, property settlement, and parenting arrangements are formalised as quickly and smoothly as possible. Our team of specialist Gold Coast family lawyers at Ramsden Lawyers practice exclusively in this intricate area of law. We understand that every case is unique, and work closely with our clients to achieve the best possible outcomes. We can assist you in negotiating property settlements, filing for divorce, drafting binding financial agreements, devising parenting arrangements, resolving child custody disputes, and determining spousal maintenance. If you require expert advice on family law matters, our experienced Family Law Department at Ramsden Lawyers is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can assist you in navigating the legal complexities of separation and divorce.