Interesting trends reflecting changing times

 

Figures recently released by the Office of National Statistics analysing marital status and living arrangements of adults in England and Wales between 2002 and 2014 reveal interesting trends reflecting changing times.  

 

Those in their thirties are more likely than any other age group to cohabit thus reflecting the cost saving of living in a double income household but possibly also the prohibitive costs of the “big day”.  More people between 50 and 64 are getting divorced than ever before which is a trend in recent years which appears set to continue. This trend may be attributable to longevity with many reluctant to spend their later years in an unhappy relationship as well as the prevalence of social media sites and use of dating websites that enable those past the first flush of youth to rekindle old flames that still burn bright.  

 

Overall marriage remains a popular institution and in 2014 over 50% of adults in England and Wales were married or in a civil partnership.  

 

The legal ramifications of the breakdown of marriage as opposed to a cohabiting relationship could not be more different and early advice, the use of a pre-nuptial agreement or cohabitation agreement can mitigate the damage caused in either eventuality. 

 

If you would like more advice, please contact us to speak to our Family Department.