The top 5 reasons couples get a divorce, according to a law expert

Expert Advice 12 Jun 24 By

Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck
(Image: Getty Images)

Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck are the latest celebrity couple to reportedly be heading for divorce.

At the time of marriage, a couple never thinks they may later face the difficult journey of separation or divorce. But for thousands of couples, at some point this does become a reality.

Reports suggest Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck’s marriage might be in trouble. The A-list stars tied the knot two years ago in a surprise Las Vegas ceremony after rekindling their romance from nearly two decades ago.

Now, the pair are reportedly selling their Beverly Hills home just a year after buying it, further sparking divorce rumours. While neither Jen or Ben have publicly addressed the split rumors and they continue to appear united in public, news outlets suggest divorce is imminent.

Here, divorce lawyer, and founder of New Way Lawyers Carolyn Devries, shares with us the top 5 reasons people get divorced.

Top 5 reasons couples file for divorce

1. Diverging interests

Marriages begin with shared values and interests, but over time, individuals change, leading to a misalignment in what they enjoy and aspire for in life. Taking time together as a couple to enjoy shared hobbies and explore new interests is an important way for couples to stay connected.

2. Lack of intimacy

Lack of intimacy in a marriage is another top reason for divorce. If one or both parties feel they aren’t intimate enough, this can cause a physical and emotional disconnect.  Intimacy is a very sacred and significant aspect of any relationship or marriage and creating time and space for intimacy is important.

3. Unbalanced contributions

Disparity in responsibilities, whether in parenting or household chores, can breed resentment and feelings of inadequacy, contributing to marital strain. Having a practical way to allocate household and family chores can prevent issues of one party feeling as though they carry a great weight of responsibilities.

Jennifer Lopez and Ben Afflect
Over 20 years since they first met, Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez tied the knot in July, 2022. (Image: Getty Images)

4. Financial strain

Financial matters can be a hot topic in marriages and can cause conflict and strain, particularly when one partner exerts disproportionate control over finances or harbors undisclosed financial matters. This can lead to feelings of betrayal and mistrust. Having a family financial plan and budget can be a proactive way to minimise issues regarding finances.

5. Technological distraction

In a growing world of technology, this is becoming a contributing factor to divorce. At the end of a long day when it’s time to connect with one another, people instead disconnect with those around them and turn to smart devices (phones, TVs) as preferred way to end (or start) the day.  Setting aside tech free family time is a way to maintain healthy relationships.

If you would like some free legal advice, Lunch with a Lawyer is a new initiative provided by, New Way Lawyers, Australia’s first non profit law firm. Through a private Facebook group individuals facing family law issues can ask their legal questions and get answers for free from a qualified family lawyer.

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