Divorce and annulment rates in Washington State have been holding steady at around 24-25,000 per year for over a decade. According to data from the Washington State Department of Health, the number of divorces and annulments in the state peaked in 2011 at 26,860 and has since gradually decreased. In 2016, the most recent year for which data is available, there were 24,499 divorces and annulments in the state.
While the stable divorce rate may seem like a positive sign, it actually means that many families in Washington are going through the difficult process of separation and divorce each year. The data also shows an uptick in divorces and annulments after the recession in 2008, which eventually leveled off around 2014. It is possible that the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic may cause another increase in divorce rates in the coming years.
The pandemic has brought many changes to our daily lives, including the way we work and interact with our families. For many couples, the stress and uncertainty of the pandemic has put a strain on their relationships, leading to an increase in divorce rates. However, there are steps that couples can take to help prevent divorce during these challenging times.
Psychology Today recently published a list of eight tips to help prevent divorce for families working and staying at home during the pandemic. These tips include maintaining open communication, prioritizing quality time together, setting boundaries, and seeking professional help when needed.
In addition to these tips, it is important for couples to understand their legal options and seek guidance from a qualified family law attorney. A divorce or separation can be a complicated and emotional process, but having the right legal representation can help ensure a fair and equitable outcome for all parties involved.
If you or a loved one is considering divorce or separation in Washington State, it is important to seek the advice of an experienced family law attorney.
In conclusion, while the stable divorce rate in Washington State may seem like a positive sign, it actually means that many families are going through the difficult process of separation and divorce each year. With the ongoing pandemic, it is important for couples to take steps to prevent divorce and seek the guidance of qualified legal professionals when needed.