According to the Office for National Statistics the number of divorces in England and Wales in 2012 was 118,140, an increase of 0.5% since 2011, when there were 117,558 divorces.

According to the report, the number of divorces declined between 2003 and 2009 from 153,065 to 113,949 followed by a 4.9% increase in 2010. The number of divorces has remained relatively stable since 2010, fluctuating just below the number recorded in 2010.

Further key findings include:

• Divorce rates: In 2012, 10.8 people divorced per thousand married population, a decrease of 19% compared with 13.3 in 2002.
• Age at divorce: The number of divorces in 2012 was highest among men and women aged 40 to 44.
• Duration of marriage: The median duration of marriage for divorces granted in 2012 was 11.5 years, which was the same as in 2011. This is an increase from 11.1 years in 2002.
• Marital status before marriage: In 2012, 19% of men and women divorcing had their previous marriage end in divorce.
• Children of divorced couples: Almost half (48%) of couples divorcing in 2012 had at least one child aged under 16 living in the family.
• 60% of marriages are expected to survive to the 20th anniversary.
• The average marriage is expected to last for 32 years.

For the full article see  www.ons.gov.uk/ons/dcp171778_351693.pdf

For advice on divorce or separation please contact Amanda Weaver on 01788 555042  or [email protected]