The pandemic has had a profound impact on families in our country, our economy, and our workforce. Parents are juggling virtual school for their kids, changes in job status, financial burdens are high, and we have all had to incorporate social distancing and masking into our daily lives. It is interesting to note that even though many of us have been spending much more time at home under this stress, marriage rates and divorce rates are on the decline compared to pre-pandemic data. At a time of unparalleled stress, what might be accounting for these marriage and divorce rates?
Financial Impact On Marriage And Divorce
First, and perhaps most importantly, the financial stress of the pandemic is difficult for us to begin to quantify at this time. It is estimated that many women have been forced to leave the workforce to care for children and supplement the virtual learning process for their children. This will have long term implications for our workforce. Couples are deciding to postpone weddings either because of the difficulty of planning a social gathering during COVID or because they may not feel financially secure enough to take the next step.
The reason divorce rates are also down has to do with economics. Divorce can cost more than $10,000 if you go through the court system and the cost of two households is significantly higher than one. So, many couples may be feeling stuck, so to speak, with very few options because of financial stress. These divorce rates may be lower right now as couples decide to postpone their impending divorce until the pandemic is under control and/or they are in a more solid financial situation.
Divorce Mediation Services in Minnesota
If you are considering divorce and feeling a bit stuck, you do have some more affordable options to consider that will not break the bank. Mediation is a highly effective way to resolve issues like child custody and parenting plans, division of property and child/spousal support. Mediation is a fraction of the cost of litigation primarily because you do not have to pay hourly rates for attorneys. In addition, mediation can now be completed entirely virtually so that you do not have to increase your risk of exposure to COVID-19.
It has been such a difficult year for so many of us. Johnson Mediation is here to help you manage family and parenting issues during this time. You do not have to wait – we are open right now to provide support and assistance. Call us at 952-401-7599 to schedule a free consultation.
