High Divorce Rates in Arizona

Statistics show that nearly half of marriages in the United States end in divorce. The divorce rate begins at about 41-50 percent for couples in their first marriage, and tends to increase for those who are in a second or third marriage.

Nationally, Arizona holds one of the highest divorce rates in the country. In studies by the U.S. Census Bureau and the American Community Study, approximately 10.8 out of every 1,000 men got a divorced in 2011, the national average for men being 9.2 per 1,000. For Arizona women, the divorce rate is higher with a rate of 11.9 out of every 1,000 women. The national average for women is 9.7 per 1,000.

This puts Arizona in the number 10 spot for highest divorce rates in the U.S. A study in 2008-2009 showed that there were more divorces in Arizona than there were marriages.

There are many reasons that can be attributed to Arizona’s increased divorce rate. Arizona is a no-fault state, meaning that neither spouse has to accept blame for the dissolution of the marriage and there does not need to be a specific reason for the divorce. This makes the process easier than it would be in states that require both spouses prove reason for the divorce, and it can be granted even one spouse disagrees.

The economy may also play a role in high divorce rates. Studies show that financial stress and crisis can lead to marital problems. Arizona has been one of the hardest hit states by the struggling economy.

Exactly why the divorce rates are so high, however, will remain a question with no definite answer. If you have found yourself in a happily ever after that seems to be ending, contact a Glendale divorce attorney as soon as possible. The lawyers at The Sampair Group will work with you to protect your legal rights in divorce litigation while looking out for your best interests.