Why Are Subsequent Marriages More Likely To End In Divorce?

Divorce is much more common today than it once was. As a result, second and third marriages are also becoming more common. While many people want to take a second chance on love, it is a sad but true fact that subsequent marriages are more likely to end in divorce than first marriages. Statistics have shown that second marriages are 67 percent more likely to dissolve than first marriages. That number jumps to 74 percent when people get married for a third time. So, why is divorce so much more likely in subsequent marriages? Below, our Media divorce lawyer explains.

Not Marrying for the Right Reasons

Just as people do not always marry for the right reasons the first time, people may also get married a second or third time for the wrong reasons. People that have gotten a divorce in the past are sometimes excited about being in another romantic relationship. Other times, people are simply lonely and believe that getting married will relieve them of that feeling. Any time people rush into getting married, they may not know enough about their partner’s habits and personalities, which could lead to divorce.

More Complex Relationships

It is well known that when two people get married, they marry the other person’s family as well as their spouse. Families are often bigger in second and third marriages. One or both spouses may have children from previous relationships and sometimes, they may still be co-parenting with their former spouse.

All of these relationships can be more complex, especially if one person is unhappy about another moving on with their life. Former spouses may start conflict, or stepchildren may feel resentful. All of this takes a toll on a marriage and unfortunately, many do not survive it.

Financial Issues

Arguments about money, saving, and spending are one of the most common reasons for divorce in first marriages, as well as in subsequent marriages. Disagreements about money management are actually even more common in subsequent marriages. In these marriages, one spouse may have an obligation to pay alimony or child support to a former spouse, which can make the current partner feel resentful. Due to the fact that people in second and third marriages are often older, one or both partners may have accumulated large savings for retirement and the couple may start to argue about how those funds are spent.

No Fear of the Unknown

One of the most common reasons people stay in unhappy first marriages is because they do not know what to expect during the divorce process. When a person has already been through the process before, the fear of the unknown is removed and so, they may move forward with a divorce more quickly than they did the first time.

Our Divorce Lawyer in Media Can Help with Your Case

If you are thinking about ending your marriage, our Media divorce lawyer can help. At Barbara Flum Stein & Associates, our seasoned attorney can help you overcome any challenges that arise during the process so you obtain the fair settlement you are entitled to. Call us now at 610-565-6100 or connect with us online to schedule a consultation.

Source:

legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/legis/LI/consCheck.cfm?txtType=HTM&ttl=23&div=0&chpt=33&sctn=1&subsctn=0