Overall military divorce rate drops in past year

Overall military divorce rate drops in past year

It is common knowledge that divorce affects everyone in this nation, including in Illinois, regardless of social status, government position or even if one or both of the spouses serves in the military. People who are going through the divorce process will most likely face legal issues like spousal support, alimony, child custody, child support and property division.

The latest data from the Department of Defense show that the divorce rate among military service members is now lower than it was last year, down from 3.5 percent to 3.4 percent. The main contributing factor is the decreased number of military women who are going through a divorce. In 2011, 8 percent of military women went through divorce. This year, an estimated 7.2 percent of military women reported divorcing. Four in every 100 service men and women who entered 2013 married ended up divorcing.

Another contributing factor in the divorce downward trend is the war in Iraq, which has ended, and the decrease of troops being deployed in Afghanistan. The DoD’s data are based on reports filed by the military service members who are seeking change in their status.

Of course, even though the rate may be dropping, there are still military families that are making the decision to file for divorce – many for different reasons. Some of them seek divorce to end their failed marriages, while others think it is better to part ways than to live with someone they no longer love. Either way, divorcing individuals should be prepared for the issues that may arise in the legal process. People say that divorce is one of the most difficult chapters in their lives, but still, each case is unique and offers different challenges. It is up to the person to handle the divorce in a way that works best for him or her.

Divorce is a legal process and handling the case alone may not be the best option for a divorcing individual. Seeking legal guidance and representation can help a divorcing spouse to get through the divorce and start a new life once the divorce is finalized.

Source: MilitaryTimes.com, “Military divorce rate ticks downward,” Andrew Tilghman, Dec. 19, 2013