Filing for Divorce During Covid

The COVID-19 pandemic has created a new normal in America. With over 32 million cases in the United States alone, lockdown orders, mask mandates, and record unemployment numbers had many Americans staying home throughout 2020.

Every relationship contains stress and conflict, but many couples were pushed to the breaking point due to added stress caused by the pandemic. So if you’re trying to learn how to file a divorce during COVID – you’re not alone. Divorce rates spiked during 2020, and many experts believe that more couples will be filing for a divorce as the COVID pandemic draws to a close.

Why is COVID Impacting Divorce Rates?

Studies have shown that around 31 percent of couples have claimed that the COVID pandemic has caused irreversible damage to their marriage or relationships. The coronavirus pandemic placed a substantial strain on couples through a combination of stressors, including:

Death of loved ones
Unemployment
Financial difficulties
Illness
Lockdowns
Too much time together
Homeschooling children

Tips for Filing for Divorce During COVID

If you are considering filing for divorce during COVID, you must be aware of the steps to take should you choose to file.

1. Review Your Divorce Options

If you and your spouse have decided to divorce, it’s essential to consider your divorce options before you file. For example, do you intend to use attorneys to help negotiate assets and custodial agreements? Do you want to file for a divorce without the use of lawyers? Can divorce mediation help you and your spouse discuss and finalize your divorce?

Reviewing your options will help you learn how to file for divorce during COVID and determine the best choice for your divorce case.

2. Talk to an Experienced Attorney

The best way to learn how to file for divorce during COVID in your area is to speak with an experienced divorce attorney. Divorce lawyers stay informed on new restrictions and requirements for divorce proceedings during the coronavirus pandemic. Speaking with an attorney can help keep you informed about how COVID may impact your divorce.

Filing for a divorce isn’t easy, even under the best of circumstances. It can be a complex process, especially if you and your spouse have mutual assets to divide or if you have disagreements on custody and custodial support following a divorce.

The coronavirus pandemic has caused many court systems to become backlogged due to overwhelming cases and new COVID-19 restrictions. As a result, while filing for divorce during COVID is still possible, your divorce may take longer to finalize. Being aware of these potential delays will help you plan for the future and will give you a better idea of what to expect as you proceed through your divorce proceedings.

4. Learn How COVID Restrictions May Impact Your Divorce Proceedings

Many courts have adopted social distancing practices and other restrictions that can impact your divorce proceedings. Not only have these new restrictions caused a delay in many U.S. courts, but you may be expected to comply with mask mandates, social distancing within the courthouse, or video conferences and communications.

Law firms are grappling with most of the same staffing problems as other businesses. So many are short-handed or have new staff, which can also cause delays. Also be prepared that you may not be allowed to personally visit your attorney’s office or the courthouse.

Additionally, it’s become more common for mediators and divorce attorneys to communicate with clientele over online communications and correspondents. When deciding to file for divorce during the pandemic, you must remain flexible to these potential changes.