The Divorce Rate in California

Divorce is not uncommon, especially in the United States.  The divorce rate among couples that have gotten married for the first time is 41%.  Individuals who are in their second marriage have a 60% divorce rate.  In California it is even higher.  The divorce rate in California hovers around 75%. Because of the high divorce rate in California, many refer to the state as the divorce capital of the world.

So why is this?  It might be because of what seems like a liberal, movie star-like culture.  If you pay attention to the celebrity gossip pages, then it seems like celebrities living Los Angeles get married on a whim.  Is that how everyone is in California?  Not likely.  Maybe it has to do with couples moving to the state and struggling with money issues and career issues.  To be honest, couples probably divorce for the same reasons in California as in other states.

It is always recommended that you seek counseling before deciding on divorce.  A divorce can get quite messy and be taxing both mentally and financially.  Not to mention the fact that if there is a possibility your marriage can be saved, then you should explore that possibility.  If divorce is the only way to go, then keep these tips in mind.

1. If children are involved, then be sure to keep them from being exposed to any nasty divorce fights.  You and your ex-partner should do your best to split ways in an amicable way, and if that isn’t possible, then at least treat each other with mutual respect in front of your children.
2. Find a qualified family lawyer to help guide you through the divorce process.  A family lawyer may even be able to recommend a therapist if you need one.
3. There will be a lot of financial tasks that need to be taken care of.  A tax accountant is a good idea if you do not have one. 
4. Close any bank or investment accounts that you share with your partner.  Cancel shared credit cards as well.
5. Separate your credit history from your partner by calling the major credit bureaus. 
6. You will have to make legal revisions to documents such as your will, your insurance, your taxes and any retirement plans you may have, such as a 401k.
7. Be sure to keep copies of all your legal and financial information. 
8. Come up with a personal budget of how much you need to live after the divorce goes through.

These are just a few tips on how to prepare yourself for a divorce.  Even if it is an amicable split and you remain on friendly terms with your ex-partner, the legalities and paperwork involved in a divorce can be extremely stressful.  Make sure you include family and friends in what is going on so that you have a support group to fall on when you need someone to lend an ear.

Don't feel bad about divorcing your partner.  If the marriage didn't work, then it didn't work.  It is not uncommon to be divorced as you can see by the divorce rate in California. Just remember, divorce isn't easy, but it doesn't have to be messy.