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Financial issues continue to be a significant cause of divorce

On Behalf of | May 14, 2019 | Divorce, Firm News |

The dynamics of marriage have changed significantly over the years. The Cleavers of the 1950s are a distant memory to baby-boomers and incomprehensible to most younger couples. While single-income homes still exist, they are certainly the exception and not the rule. And while double incomes are currently the norm, a woman making more than her husband in California is not, and the disparity in income earning can cause problems in a marriage that may lead to divorce. This is according to recent study on the subject.

The perceived reasons for the conflict are many. Male ego certainly comes into play as does a perceived power struggle. In one instance, a woman who earned more than her husband had the final say in many monetary household decisions. This included vacation plans, where to go for dinner and other household expenses. The resulting tension resolved itself when the husband’s income reached a level more equal to hers.

The dynamics of marriage have indeed changed, but men may be slower than women to accept that change. Statistics show that approximately 38% of wives earn more than their spouses. When this is the case, studies show that the risk of divorce is 33% higher than for those couples who both work full time and where the man earns a higher income. It is thought that perhaps the continued existence of the glass ceiling in the workplace for women contributes to the continued trope of men as principal breadwinners.

Maintaining a successful marriage over time is difficult and takes a lot of work. Financial issues have long been a source of discord in a relationship. A person in California who is considering a divorce may wish to consult with a knowledgeable family law attorney. An experienced lawyer can look at the big financial picture and advise the client as to what options are available to arrive at a fair settlement.

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