Today on Valentine’s Day, Kerry Lees-Russell tell us how it could be bad for your marriage.
At Gorvins we have seen Divorce inquiries almost double on February 14th, with some women citing a partner’s lack of romance as an example of ‘unreasonable behaviour’ which is the most common ground for divorce in UK law. The day devoted to romance and public shows of affection however can trigger the end to a troubled marriage. Seeing other couples’ lovey-dovey Instagram and Facebook posts can rub salt into the wounds, with over half (56%) of couples saying social media has caused friction in their relationship.
‘The surge in calls is usually because it seems that being surrounded by shops selling cards, flowers and the pressure to be romantic, is the final straw,” said Kerry.
“Valentine’s Day might throw into focus all the cracks in a marriage as well as the desire to have a fresh start since it could mirror how their own relationship hasn’t lived up to expectation.”
Kerry points out that some people seize on lack of interest on Valentines Day as grounds for unreasonable behaviour, which is the speediest way to get a divorce since if both parties agree to a split on these terms a judge is unlikely to raise any objections. And it doesn’t necessitate having to otherwise wait two to five years for the divorce to be finalised.
Valentines Day already has a troubled association with romance, last year research published by the University of Melbourne, found that people who get married on February 14th, have a 37 percent higher chance of splitting.
Kerry adds “On Valentine’s Day and the day after, many clients will have looked at social networking sites and seen them filled with posts from happy couples at gorgeous restaurants they visited on a romantic night out. Many also posting pictures of flowers or gifts they have received. For those in an unhappy relationship, these images might add to feelings of neglect or bring home the fact that their marriage is missing something.”
Even though a bouquet of red roses will never be the one thing that could fix an otherwise challenging partnership, it just reminds people of what they think they are missing. If their relationship isn’t already working, it seems that Valentine’s Day is the proof they need that it is time to break up.
If you would like any advice regarding a divorce or separation, you can contact Kerry Russell, Associate Family Solicitor by calling 0161 930 5151 or email kerry.russell@gorvins.com