Couples in their early forties are most likely to lead parallel lives, placing a strain on their relationships ultimately leading to divorce according to Baroness Tyler, the head of counselling service Relate.
Baroness Tyler lists factors including long working hours, young children and elderly parents as all contributing to this age group leading separate lives, making it harder for them to relate to one another. The most recent divorce statistics, published last December, show that divorces in England are on the rise and the biggest increase was in the 40-45 age range. For couples who identify with the Baroness’s description, it may be time to consider a relationship MoT to ensure the marriage doesn’t suffer from the stresses of external pressure.
For those couples however who find that they are leading separate lives, and who feel they’ve either gone too far down that route to return or who are happy with their position, they may want to consider taking expert advice about how best to move forward. Divorce is one option, but not the only one. Some couples prefer to enter into a ‘separation agreement’ which can set out what is to happen with everything from the family home through to who will keep the dog. For other couples, a court approved ‘judicial separation’ may be the right choice. A good family law solicitor can help guide you through the process and to make the choices that are right for you.
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