Oklahoma Divorce Rate One of Highest in the Country

The United States as a country has a very high divorce rate.  The Oklahoma divorce rate is is one of the largest in the country.  In 2012, Oklahoma divorce rate was ranked third, behind Nevada and Maine, as having one of the highest divorce rates, at 12.9%.  More recent statistics show that Oklahoma has 13 divorces per 1,000 marriages per year.  Divorce is a stressful process that is unfortunate for many couples, but may also be a necessary step for both ex-spouses to prosper in the future.  Some marriages simply do not work out and end in divorce.

The Oklahoma Divorce Rate Out Of Control:

It is relatively easy to get a divorce in Oklahoma in comparison to other states.  This may be one reason why the divorce rate is high.  However, if we look at the underlying reasons for divorce, we see that many couples marry at a young age, before they are really ready.  Here are a few reasons why Oklahomans are divorcing at such a high rate:

• Getting married too young, typically from 20-22 years of age
• Infidelity
• The need to satisfy family members and “settle down”
• Inability to compromise
• Marrying without really considering the consequences or really knowing the other spouse

Whatever the reason may be for getting a divorce, the Oklahoma divorce rate is gaining attention for being a “divorce state.”  This is not good for the state’s reputation, but it is important to remember that there are times when a divorce is essential to resolving issues among ex-spouses.

Take one Oklahoma woman’s story as an example:

A 25-year-old woman thought she was marrying the man of her dreams.  Little did she know, her spouse-to-be already had a family of his own in another state.  They were able to marry without the state of Oklahoma being aware of the other marriage.  The young woman and her husband had two children, and it took four years before the young woman became aware of her husband’s other family.  However, this reality took a toll on the young woman and she felt if her husband was lying about something so serious, how could he be telling the truth about anything else?  In this woman’s case, a divorce was necessary for her to move on with her life and protect her children.  This story is just one of many leading to divorce in Oklahoma.

Feelings About Oklahoma Divorce:

Perceiving divorce as shameful is not always accurate.  Simultaneously, Oklahoman’s need to look at the underlying causes of divorce.  They need to see if it’s possible to take the steps necessary to truly prepare for a marriage.  These include really knowing the other person, and thinking about why you are entering a marriage.  There’s an assumption that if you are still single by a certain age, then something must be wrong.  This simply is not the case.  All people are different and there is not one standard guideline that fits everyone’s life situation.  While the Oklahoma divorce rate is high, don’t let this scare you away from initially entering a marriage.  Further, don’t let it make you believe that if you are currently a spouse, you will eventually be a divorcee.

Importance of an Experienced, Aggressive Divorce Attorney:

Divorce rates in Oklahoma are out of control. The consequences of divorce can also be out of control. With child custody, division of marital assets and bills the problem looms large. If divorce is in your future we can help. Take a deep breath and ask yourself what a good outcome looks like. After that call us and set up an appointment with one of our Tulsa family lawyers.