Divorce is a challenging and life-changing decision for many married couples. There are numerous factors that can contribute to a marriage ending, but what are the most common reasons for divorce? Understanding these causes can help those considering divorce navigate their own relationships and take steps towards addressing underlying issues, or work out what they should do next.

In the UK, the most common reason for divorce is unreasonable behaviour. According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), unreasonable behaviour was cited as the reason for divorce in 52.5% of divorce petitions filed by women and 37.6% by men in opposite-sex relationships in 2022. This behaviour could include emotional neglect, controlling behaviour, and ongoing conflict within the marriage, making it a broad and often-used ground for divorce.

However, factors like communication problems, infidelity, financial issues, and constant conflict also play major roles in marriages coming to an end. Here, the expert divorce solicitors at Tyler Hoffman explain the common reasons for divorce and offer a legal perspective on the data.

Unreasonable behaviour: the leading cause of divorce

The ONS reports that unreasonable behaviour has consistently been the leading cause of divorce for decades. For women, it has been the most common ground for divorce since the late 1970s, and for men, since 2006​.

Unreasonable behaviour is a broad legal ground, covering a range of issues like emotional neglect, controlling actions, or persistent arguing, often stemming from marital conflict. It gives individuals a way to end their marriage when specific fault isn’t easy to assign, and it accounts for nearly half of all divorces as a result (47.1% in 2022).

Many divorces occur because one spouse feels unheard or unsupported, contributing to feelings of loneliness within the relationship. Before no-fault divorces were introduced, this may have been attributed to unreasonable behaviour. 

Other common causes

Poor communication is widely regarded as a primary cause of divorce. Whether that is a failure to discuss everyday concerns or difficulty addressing deep-seated emotional issues, communication breakdowns can sometimes seem insurmountable. This may be the an underlying problem that is often not registered as a cause for divorce, simply because a communication breakdown is not a legal ground for divorce.

When communication breaks down, couples can struggle to resolve conflicts and even small issues can lead to growing resentment and distance between partners that push them towards divorce. However, this does not always need to result in divorce. In such cases, working on communication skills may help some couples regain control of their marriage before issues become insurmountable. 

Constant arguing and conflict

Another major contributor to divorce is too much conflict. Arguments over finances, parenting, or lifestyle choices can build tension and strain even the strongest marriages. For many couples, disagreements may start small but escalate into larger issues that create a toxic environment. Constant arguing can cause emotional exhaustion, leaving both partners feeling frustrated and disconnected.

While some conflict is normal in any relationship, frequent and unresolved arguments can be a major sign of deeper relationship issues that could lead to divorce. When constant arguing becomes the norm, couples often find it difficult to reconnect, leading to further alienation and, eventually, divorce. Maintaining a healthy marriage requires managing conflicts constructively and ensuring both partners feel emotionally supported. In some legal contexts, this type of ongoing conflict is referred to as “irreconcilable differences” and may represent grounds for divorce.

Infidelity and extramarital affairs

Infidelity and extramarital affairs remain one of the leading factors in divorce. When trust is broken in a marriage due to an affair, it can be incredibly difficult to rebuild. The emotional impact of adultery often leads to feelings of betrayal, resentment, and insecurity, which can irreparably damage the bond between partners.

Although extramarital affair rates have fluctuated over time, infidelity continues to be a significant source of divorce filings. Many couples who experience affairs find that the relationship is irretrievably broken and seek a legal separation.

Financial difficulties

Financial problems can also be a major contributor to the breakdown of a marriage. Disagreements over spending habits, debt, and financial priorities often lead to money problems that cause stress within the household. When one partner prioritises saving while the other spends freely, this can result in considerable tension.

Additionally, if financial stability is compromised due to unemployment or other economic challenges, couples may feel overwhelmed by money troubles. Struggling to make ends meet or living with the constant pressure of debt can create an environment where conflict becomes inevitable.

Financial disagreements can quickly erode trust and create ongoing conflict, leading to divorce. Many married couples who face money issues may eventually find that these financial pressures become too much to handle, leading to separation. As such, maintaining financial stability is crucial for long-term marital success.

When couples can effectively manage their finances, they are less likely to experience the stress and conflict that often lead to divorce. Developing clear financial goals, creating a budget, and ensuring open communication about money are essential steps in building a financially secure marriage. Couples may benefit from working with a financial advisor or seeking relationship education on managing finances together before their marriage becomes strained.

Differences in parenting styles

Many couples find that they have different ideas about how to raise their children, leading to ongoing disputes. Whether it’s disagreements over discipline, education, or lifestyle choices, clashing parenting styles can create a sense of division within the household. Couples who struggle with parenting differences may find themselves locked in power struggles over who has the final say, further straining the marriage.

Domestic abuse and divorce rates

Domestic violence and abuse - whether emotional, verbal, or physical - can have devastating effects on a marriage. Many individuals in abusive relationships endure long periods of suffering before deciding to leave their partner.

Abuse takes many forms, including emotional abuse, physical abuse, and verbal abuse, all of which can lead to a toxic and dangerous environment. Victims of abuse often face difficulties in leaving the relationship, particularly if they feel financially or emotionally dependent on their partner.

In cases of abuse, seeking legal support and prioritising safety are important steps. The family court can provide options, such as obtaining an injunction, to help individuals regain control and ensure their safety after enduring trauma in an abusive relationship.

Religious differences

For some couples, differences in religious beliefs or cultural backgrounds can create friction over time. While these differences might not be evident early in a relationship, over the years they can cause divisions. Disagreements over religious practices, values, or how to raise children in a particular faith can lead to long-term dissatisfaction. In cases where religious differences create persistent conflict, couples may seek divorce as the only way to resolve these issues.

Substance abuse

Substance abuse - whether it involves alcohol or drugs - can take a severe toll on marriages. Partners dealing with addiction issues may exhibit erratic behaviour, neglect their responsibilities, or become emotionally unavailable.

Substance abuse often leads to financial problems, increased conflict, and even domestic violence, creating an unstable environment. When substance abuse becomes a chronic issue, it can destroy the trust and foundation of a marriage, prompting one partner to seek divorce as a way to escape the chaos.

The shift to no fault divorce

The introduction of no-fault divorce in the UK in 2022 marked a big change in how couples approach the legal process of divorce. The Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act 2020 played a crucial role in this change by allowing individuals to pursue divorce without stating specific grounds.

Previously, couples needed to provide specific reasons for their marriage ending, such as adultery or unreasonable behaviour. With the new system, couples can now cite that the marriage is simply no longer working, without placing blame on one spouse. This shift has allowed for a more amicable separation process for many couples, as it removes the need to assign fault or cause additional conflict during divorce proceedings.

Why you should speak to a solicitor if you’re considering a divorce

Deciding to divorce is a life-changing step, and it's not one that should be taken lightly. The process of divorce can be complex, involving a range of legal, financial, and emotional factors that can be overwhelming for many people. This is why it’s crucial to seek professional advice from a solicitor when considering divorce. A legal expert can make a big difference in the following ways:

Understanding your legal rights

Divorce laws in the UK can be intricate, and they often vary depending on your specific circumstances. Without the guidance of a solicitor, it’s easy to make mistakes that could impact your financial future or your relationship with your children. We can help you understand your legal rights when it comes to financial settlements, child custody, property division, and spousal maintenance, to understand the potential impacts of your decisions.

Tailored legal advice

Every marriage is different, and so is every divorce. A solicitor will take the time to understand your individual situation, offering personalised advice that fits your unique needs. Whether you're facing issues like domestic violence, financial instability, or infidelity, a solicitor can guide you on the best legal options available.

Navigating the legal process

The legal procedures for divorce can be confusing. From filing the divorce application to attending court hearings, having a solicitor to navigate these processes ensures everything is done correctly and on time. Errors in paperwork or missed deadlines can prolong the divorce process unnecessarily, increasing both stress and costs.

Financial security

One of the biggest concerns in a divorce is how assets will be divided. A solicitor from Tyler Hoffman can help you to get a fair financial settlement, particularly if there are large assets or debts to divide. We can also advise on issues such as pensions, investments, and spousal maintenance, ensuring your financial interests are protected throughout the process.

Reducing stress and emotional strain

Divorce is often emotionally draining, and managing the legal aspects can add to that strain. By working with a divorce solicitor from Tyler Hoffman, you can offload some of that burden. Your solicitor will handle the legal details, leaving you more time and mental energy to focus on rebuilding your life.

Speaking to a member of our team early in the process can prevent costly mistakes and ensure your best interests are protected from the start. Whether your divorce is straightforward or involves complex issues like custody or financial disputes, having a legal expert by your side will provide clarity and peace of mind.

Discussing your situation with a legal expert

Once you’ve made the decision to consult a solicitor, it’s helpful to know what to expect during the initial stages of discussing your divorce. Here is a breakdown of how the process typically unfolds when you reach out to a legal expert.

Initial consultation

The first step in seeking legal advice is to schedule an initial consultation with an expert divorce solicitor from Tyler Hoffman. During this meeting, you’ll have the opportunity to discuss your situation, including any specific concerns you have about the divorce process. We will ask for details of your marriage, such as the length of time you’ve been married, any assets you own jointly, and whether you have children. This is also the time to ask any pressing questions you may have, such as how long the divorce might take or what your legal rights are in terms of finances and custody.

Case assessment

Once your solicitor has a clear understanding of your situation, we will begin assessing your case. This involves reviewing the details of your marriage, financial documents, and any existing agreements or disputes. We will then provide you with a clear overview of your options and explain what the likely outcomes are based on the information you’ve provided.

Legal advice and strategy

Based on the assessment, your solicitor will develop a tailored legal strategy to help you achieve the best possible outcome. All of our solicitors have a track record of success and a wealth of experience in divorce cases. Whether this involves negotiating a financial settlement, representing you in custody disputes, or assisting with mediation, we will ensure you understand each step of the process. 

We’ll also be on hand throughout the divorce process to provide ongoing legal advice and guidance. We will inform you of any changes in your case, help you prepare for court hearings (if necessary), and ensure that your rights are protected. We can negotiate on your behalf, either directly with your spouse or through their legal representative, to take stress away from the process for you.

Filing the divorce application

If you decide to proceed with the divorce, your solicitor will handle the preparation and filing of your divorce application. Our experts will ensure all legal paperwork is completed correctly, which can save you time and prevent any delays in the process.