Ally Web Directory: Free Articles » Family » Tougher Divorce Laws

 

The law of the land usually follows or is a reflection of social mores. Earlier, divorce laws were stringent and a long drawn process, reflecting the hard stance that society had taken against divorce. Now, the laws have evolved and the process is made far simpler, reflecting the acceptance of divorce, as a natural outcome of a married couple unable to live together anymore.

 

Relaxed Divorce Laws

 

There was a time when divorce laws were so tough, that it was easier for a couple to just continue being married in spite of being unhappy. Not only were the terms of divorce difficult, even the time was a long drawn procedure and did not make it easy for a person to move on. However, over the years, the divorce laws have been relaxed and cases can be put on a fast track to make the process quick. One could never imagine that the heir to the British throne would be divorced and remarried. The fact that he is and laws have been altered to allow such a thing is a reflection of the current times.

 

Earlier, when couples made their marital vows, it truly was “till death do us apart”. Present day couples find that how we live is not conducive to a lifetime together. Though the intention is still to spend a lifetime together, if partners feel differently after some time, they do not feel the need to stick on. Working at a marriage doesn’t seem to appeal to a generation who seeks instant gratification. The relaxed divorce laws allow couples to move on far more easily. Further, since more often than not, both the man and woman are financially independent, it is simpler to divide property and make entitlements.

 

Relaxed Divorce Laws, Higher Divorce Rates

 

It is a little like the chicken and egg story. It is difficult to determine if divorce laws are more relaxed because divorce is so rampant, or divorce is so rampant because of relaxed divorce laws. It is true though, that it is far easier to get divorced now, than ever before. Without too much by way of an obstacle, couples see no reason to prolong an unhappy situation. The law defines clear behaviour expectations within a marriage and, therefore, anything that does not fit into these definite parameters is usually a good enough premise for divorce to be granted.

 

If a couple is absolutely unhappy with each other, the law sees it as enough reason to part. Of course, there are a few other considerations based on religion and locations etc. that come into play, but world over, divorce is far more straightforward now. Even the time frame from when divorce is filed for and the actual granting of divorce, has been shortened.

 

With the law not being tough and society being less judgemental, people find it easier to get divorced, than suffer a bad relationship. Since women are more financially independent and equal partners in a marriage, they are not hindered by other considerations. Being able to fend for them selves and divorce being made easy, a bad marriage just does not have to be suffered.

 

Time to Get Tough

 

Every relationship goes through its ups and downs. When couples hit a rough patch in a marriage, it can be difficult to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Sometimes, a situation needs a little bit of work to get back on track again. However, the easier way out for a couple might seem to walk out of the marriage. Since the process is simple, they are not encouraged to stick on and fight to make the relationship work.

 

Getting divorced, doesn’t always guarantee that one will make perfect relationship choices again. Therefore, tougher divorce laws may encourage couples to work out their issues. Laws can act like a guiding force to make people address their problems and use mediation as a solution. The reason why we have laws and rules is that we behave within certain accepted parameters. If laws are tough, couples may be forced to think long and hard before deciding that divorce is the only way out.

 

Conclusion

 

Divorce is neither good nor bad, but just a consequence of a fallout in a legally recognised relationship. However, the ending of any relationship is sad and, if people are willing to work harder, sometimes, the same relationship can end up being more rewarding. Tough divorce laws, if nothing else, will help a couple give their marriage one last chance.