Understanding the realities of divorce is essential for anyone considering this significant life change. At Hobson & Hobson, P.C., we combine over 30 years of experience with innovative legal strategies to guide clients through every stage of divorce and family law matters in Atlanta and surrounding areas. Here, we address the question: How many marriages end in divorce, and what does this mean for families in Georgia?

Divorce Statistics: National and Georgia Perspectives

Divorce remains a pivotal issue for many families, but recent data reveals important trends:

• Nationally, about 41% of first marriages in the United States end in divorce. This rate increases to 60% for second marriages and over 70% for subsequent marriages, according to the American Psychological Association (source).
• The overall U.S. divorce rate has declined over the past decade, dropping from 3.6 divorces per 1,000 people in 2010 to 2.4 per 1,000 in 2022 (CDC data).
• Georgia’s divorce rate is currently 2.1 per 1,000 people, one of the lowest in the country, though it has seen a slight uptick in recent years (Georgia.gov).

These numbers reflect broader societal changes, including shifting attitudes toward marriage, increased selectivity in choosing partners, and the impact of education and economic stability on marital longevity.

Why Do Marriages End? The Role of Cheating and Other Factors

When exploring how many marriages end because of cheating, infidelity consistently ranks as one of the leading causes of divorce in the United States. While precise percentages vary, studies suggest that cheating is a factor in up to 25-40% of divorces (Psychology Today). Other major reasons include:

• Financial stress and disagreements
• Lack of communication or emotional intimacy
• Incompatibility and growing apart
• Substance abuse and addiction

At Hobson & Hobson, we understand the sensitive nature of these issues. Our approach balances empathy with assertive advocacy, ensuring our clients’ rights and interests are protected — especially when infidelity or other complex factors are involved.

Trends and Insights: Divorce Over the Last Decade

The landscape of marriage and divorce is evolving:

• Divorce rates are declining faster than marriage rates. This suggests that couples are more cautious and intentional about marriage, possibly contributing to longer-lasting unions.
• In Georgia, women under 34 are more likely to initiate divorce than men, but this trend reverses after age 35.
• Education is a strong protective factor: Individuals with a bachelor’s degree or higher have a divorce rate just over 25%, compared to nearly 40% for those with only a high school diploma.

These trends highlight the importance of understanding your unique circumstances and seeking professional guidance tailored to your situation.

Georgia Divorce Law: What You Need to Know

Georgia allows for both no-fault and fault-based divorces. Most divorces proceed on a no-fault basis, requiring only that the marriage is “irretrievably broken.” However, fault-based grounds — such as adultery, desertion, or cruelty — can impact the outcome of property division and spousal support.

Key points for Georgia residents:

• The state’s legal framework and demographic factors contribute to its relatively low divorce rate.
• High-asset divorces and contentious custody disputes require specialized legal expertise due to their complexity.

For more on Georgia’s divorce laws, visit the Georgia Department of Human Services.

How Hobson & Hobson Supports Clients Through Divorce

Our firm is dedicated to providing clear, innovative, and client-focused legal solutions. Here’s how we stand apart:

• Experience and Specialization: With over 30 years of combined experience, our attorneys are equipped to handle both straightforward and highly complex cases, including high-asset divorces and contentious custody battles.
• Litigation and Mediation: We strive for amicable resolutions through mediation but are fully prepared to litigate aggressively when necessary to protect your interests.
• Technology-Driven Efficiency: We leverage advanced legal technology to streamline case management, ensuring transparency and responsiveness throughout your case.
• Client-Centric Approach: Our team balances empathy with assertive advocacy, supporting clients through every step of the process.

Learn more about our services at thehobsonlawfirm.com.

Professional Advice for Those Considering Divorce

If you are contemplating divorce, early preparation and legal guidance are crucial. Here are some expert recommendations:

• Consult with a family law attorney early to understand your rights, options, and the likely outcomes for your unique situation.
• Gather financial documents and consider the long-term implications for property division, child custody, and support.
• For high-asset or contentious custody cases, choose a firm with specialized litigation training and a proven track record in complex family law matters.

Our initial consultations are designed to help you make informed decisions and develop a strategy tailored to your goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many marriages end because of cheating?

While estimates vary, research suggests that cheating is a contributing factor in 25-40% of divorces. Infidelity can significantly impact divorce proceedings, especially in fault-based cases in Georgia.

What is the current divorce rate in Georgia?

As of 2024, Georgia’s divorce rate is 2.1 per 1,000 people, which is lower than the national average. However, rates can vary by age, education, and other demographic factors.

How does Hobson & Hobson handle high-asset or contentious divorces?

We bring specialized litigation training and decades of experience to complex cases, ensuring that financial interests and parental rights are protected. Our approach combines innovative technology with personalized legal strategies.

What should I do first if I’m considering divorce?

Schedule a consultation with an experienced family law attorney. Early legal advice helps you understand your options, prepare necessary documentation, and avoid common pitfalls.

Can mediation help avoid a contentious divorce?

Yes, mediation can often lead to amicable resolutions, saving time, expense, and emotional strain. Our attorneys are skilled in both mediation and litigation, allowing us to pursue the best path for your situation.

Additional Resources

• American Psychological Association: Marriage and Divorce
• CDC: National Marriage and Divorce Rate Trends
• Georgia Department of Human Services: Child Support
• Psychology Today: Infidelity
• Hobson & Hobson, P.C.

At Hobson & Hobson, P.C., we are committed to helping clients navigate the complexities of divorce with confidence, clarity, and compassion. Whether your case is straightforward or involves significant assets and contentious custody issues, our team is here to protect your interests and guide you toward the best possible outcome.

Sarah Hobson

Attorney Sarah Hobson at Hobson and Hobson, P.C. are powerful advocates for those who fight for better futures for those going through divorce and custody law matters.