Increase in divorces due to women behaving ‘unreasonably’

An analysis of official divorce figures between 1971 and 2011 has shown an increase in the number of divorces where women have 'behaved unreasonably'. Separations for this reason have risen dramatically over the last forty years, potentially because of women's increasing financial independence leading to a greater willingness to assert themselves.

According to The Telegraph, in 1971, only 2,165 husbands divorced their partner because of her 'unreasonable' actions which accounts for 6% of the total divorces granted to men.  However, by 2011, the same reason accounted for almost half of separations, with some 14,597 divorces granted against women on these grounds.

In addition to signifying a greater independence and assertiveness, lawyers have also suggested that a rise in more generous divorce settlements for wives on lower incomes has made it easier for them to leave their husbands.

The figures also showed a decline in divorces on the grounds of 'adultery' - with just one in six of the 117,385 total in 2011 due to this reason. However, while 'unreasonable behaviour' can be easily established by a court, 'adultery' requires either an admission or proof which are harder to come by.

If you would like more information on divorce or separation please contact family law solicitors James Haworth, Alistair Dobson and Sarah Townsend at Lawson-West on 0116 212 1000 / 01858 445480.

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