Summary

Deciding whether to divorce is deeply personal and complex. This article helps weigh emotional, relational, legal, and financial factors so you can make a more informed decision. You’ll learn key warning signs, questions to ask yourself (and with your partner), what divorce law now looks like in England & Wales, the likely impacts (especially financial), and resources to get support. By the end, you should feel more clarity about whether divorcing is the right step.

Should I Get a Divorce?

What “Divorce” Means Now (England & Wales Legal Framework)

– Since 6 April 2022, the Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act 2020 introduced no‑fault divorce. That means one can apply for divorce by stating the marriage has irretrievably broken down; you don’t need to prove wrongdoing.
– There must be at least one year since marriage before applying.

UK Divorce Statistics & Trends (2025)

Metric	Value / Trend	Why It Matters
Number of divorces in England & Wales (2023)	~76,000 couples divorced; lowest since 1971	Shows divorces are less frequent
Rate per 1,000 married people	~6.7 per 1,000 men; ~6.6 per 1,000 women in 2022	Helps you understand how common divorce is
Likelihood of marriage ending	Estimates around 33‑38%	Real risk is substantial but not majority
Average duration of marriage before divorce	~13 years	Provides a reference point

 

Key Signs It May Be Time to Divorce

Emotional & Relational Warning Signs

– Persistent loss of trust or respect
– Deep emotional disconnection
– Lack of communication
– Loss of intimacy
– Frequent arguments
– Feeling unhappy more often than happy

Practical & Life‑Impact Signs

– Abuse (physical, emotional, financial)
– Repeated broken promises
– Staying together just for children
– Overwhelming financial stress
– No shared future or goals

 

Questions to Ask Yourself

1. Have I genuinely tried counselling or mediation?
2. Do I feel safe in this relationship?
3. Are our core values still aligned?
4. What fears do I have about divorce?
5. How will divorce impact children?
6. Am I staying out of obligation or love?
7. What do I want my life to look like in 5-10 years?

Pros and Cons of Divorce

Pros	Cons
Relief from conflict	Emotional pain & grief
Opportunity for growth	Financial costs
Safer environment	Impact on children
Autonomy	Social/community reactions

 

Financial & Personal Impacts

– Income changes: Women’s household income drops ~50% on average post-divorce.
– Pensions/assets: Often overlooked but critical.
– Housing & living costs: Higher after divorce.
– Long-term financial security: settlements, legal fees, taxes.

 

Legal Process in England & Wales

– Apply under no-fault divorce law.
– One‑year marriage minimum.
– Cooling-off periods apply.
– Financial settlement and arrangements for children/property required.

 

Common FAQs

Am I making a mistake if I divorce when I still love my partner?

Not necessarily. Love doesn’t always equal a sustainable marriage.

How will divorce affect children?

Conflict-free separation often benefits children long-term.

Can I divorce if financially dependent?

Yes, with good legal advice.

How long does divorce take?

Varies, but uncontested divorces are faster.

 

Action Steps

– Seek therapeutic support.
– Consult a family law solicitor.
– Try mediation if possible.
– Plan finances carefully.
– Build emotional support.
– Prioritise safety in abusive situations.

 

Divorce rates

Do you really want a divorce?

Author Bio

Nia Williams, Registered Relationship Therapist & Certified Life Coach
Nia is part of the Miss Date Doctor team of therapists, life coaches, and consultants. With over 10 years of experience, she helps individuals and couples navigate transitions such as separation, infidelity, and life after divorce.