California Divorce Trends

During the past 40 years, the divorce rate has increased substantially throughout the US. This trend varies from state to state. Yet, California has been a leader in this upward trend.

Let's take a look at some of the potential reasons for California's high divorce rate:

1) Lenient laws

California is a no-fault state, the first state in the US to enact the no-fault divorce law. This simply means that marriage partners are not required to prove fault or build a legal case against the other spouse. The no-fault law makes divorce an easily accessible option for a troubled marriage. They do not require a separation nor do they necessarily require the services of a lawyer.

In 1969, Gov. Ronald Reagan signed the Family Law Act with the new and revolutionary no-fault law. It was the general consensus at the time that the old traditional laws no longer served the public interest, and the new law was "more humane and enlightened." The no-fault law made "irreconcilable differences" the basis for a divorce.

After the enactment of the new laws in 1969, there was a rapid increase in the divorce rate. In 1970, the first full year of the new no-fault law, the divorce rate in California was 60% higher than the rate for the entire US. This rapid increase continued for the next decade. By 1980, California lawmakers, embarrassed by the high number of divorces, implemented a quick fix -- they would no longer retain or publish statistics. Yet, California's rate continues to climb.

2) Entertainment industry

Many married couples in the nation's entertainment industry work and live in California. These celebrities generally enjoy a lavish lifestyle with liberal views. Often they marry for the wrong reasons and soon end up in divorce. Infidelity and divorce seem to be the new trend. Some celebrities use frequent divorces for publicity. Juicy details that attract the news media, and they make a great deal of money.

3) Women's financial independence

Many married women in California are career women. Dual career homes add stress to the marriage and can ultimately lead to divorce. With increased financial independence, women do not hesitate to end a troubled marriage.

4) More liberal social norms

Californians are liberal minded and divorce is socially acceptable. Although it is considered to be unfortunate, the partners are free to continue their careers and social lives without any shame or disgrace.

5) Remarriages

There is a prevalence of remarriage among California divorcees. Unfortunately, second, third, and successive marriages have a greater risk of divorce. As a result, remarriages contribute to higher rates.