New Jersey has a few things to boast about when it comes to marriage and divorce. The Garden State enjoys a marriage rate that is 10 percent higher than the national average and also has the second lowest divorce rate in the country.
Top 10 states with lowest divorce rate
Nationwide, the divorce rate fell for the third straight year, dropping to its lowest level in 40 years. North Dakota leads the pack with the lowest divorce rate in the country at 8.1 percent, with New Jersey ranking a close second at only 8.2 percent. A look at the top ten states with the lowest divorce rate is as follows:
- North Dakota (8.1%)
- New Jersey (8.2%)
- New York (8.4%)
- Massachusetts (9.1%)
- Hawaii (9.2%)
- Pennsylvania (9.4%)
- Utah (9.4%)
- Illinois (9.5%)
- Virginia (9.6%)
- Minnesota (9.7%)
Nevada ranks as the state with the highest divorce rate at 14.2 percent. Nationally, the highest divorce rates are seen among 20-24 year olds, with 36.6 percent of women and 38.8 percent of men falling into this category.
Factors that influence divorce rate
Each marriage (and divorce) is uniquely personal. However, some factors tend to influence the divorce rate including: the age at which you marry, education level, religion, sexuality, location, whether or not you have children, and your parents’ marital status.
New Jersey is a mixed state when it comes to divorce
New Jersey is considered a mixed state regarding divorce. Couples can file for divorce based on either “fault” or “no-fault” grounds, or on a separation that is longer than 18 months. There is no legal requirement to assign blame for the marriage failing, although if one party is at fault, that can be a factor when addressing other issues of the divorce, such as child custody or division of property.
Have questions regarding marriage or divorce? We can help
Deciding whether to marry — or whether to dissolve a marriage – are major life decisions that require thoughtful consideration. If you are planning to marry, wondering if you need a prenuptial agreement, contemplating divorce, or having difficulty with child support or another family matter, the family law attorneys at Lomurro Law can help. Our dedicated team is compassionate, understanding, and knowledgeable in all areas of family law. We have a demonstrated track record of success in working with New Jersey couples to reach the best possible outcome in their divorce proceeding, child custody issue, spousal support arrangement, or other family matter. To discuss your situation, contact a member of our team to schedule a confidential consultation. Reach us at 732-482-9285 or online. Lomurro Law has office locations in Freehold and East Brunswick.