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Divorce rate higher for lesbians than gay men

On Behalf of | May 14, 2021 | Divorce

When couples in the Texas LGBTQ community marry, they are not thinking of the end of that union. However, they might be interested in the rates of divorce for LGBTQ couples and what data focusing on same-sex couples in England, Wales and Scotland has found.

Divorce rates for lesbians and gays

According to data from the Office for National Statistics, in 2019, 56% of same-sex marriages were between women. However, the divorce rate for lesbians was much higher, with 72% of same-sex divorces in 2019 coming from lesbian couples, about 3 times higher than gay male couples. The lesbian divorce rate was 78% in 2016, 74% in 2017 and 75% in 2018. Interestingly, while same-sex marriages have increased drastically since 2014, when same-sex marriage was allowed in England, Wales and Scotland, the rate of divorce has remained consistent. For most divorces, the reason seems to be “unreasonable behavior,” including adultery.

Divorce factors

Considering that marriages between lesbian and gay couples that end in divorce last for similar amounts of years, 4.1 for women and 4.3 for men, it is important to consider the factors that lead to higher rates in dissolution of marriage for lesbians. According to one family law professional, the factors that lead lesbians to divorce are the very same ones that lead women in heterosexual marriages to petition for divorce at a rate about twice as high as men. These factors include:

  • Feeling ignored in a marriage
  • Unequal relationship with one partner pulling the weight in the marriage
  • Adultery
  • Domestic violence

Ending a marriage is not an easy decision. However, if you find yourself having to make that choice, you should prepare even before you file. Preparation might include gathering evidence and documents related to the marriage and your assets and liabilities and speaking with a lawyer about your options.