Are Gay Couples as Likely to Divorce?

With the legalization of same-sex marriage this past June, this landmark ruling has many same-sex and heterosexuals asking, "Do same-sex couples divorce at the same rate as heterosexual couples?" This is a good question indeed!

We decided to do a little research on the matter and it led us to studies conducted by the Williams Institute on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Law and Public Policy, which previously studied same-sex couples and parenting.

The organization studied divorce rates among LGBT couples from Vermont and New Hampshire. The research concluded that on average, the divorce rate for gay couples was roughly 1.1 percent annually between Vermont and New Hampshire. For heterosexual couples, the divorce rate was 2 percent.

Other research discovered that female couples were more inclined to seal the deal with a domestic partnership, civil union or marriage, than male same-sex couples.

Of the 10 states that provided data, 64 percent of the same-sex couples who entered into a legal status for their relationship were female, while male couples made up 36 percent respectively. On average, the research found that 62 percent of married gay couples were women.

Christy Mallory, a co-author of the study, said that she wasn't surprised by the divorce rate disparity. She explained how many of them had waited years to get married. Mallory said that on average, the couples are more likely to have a relationship that's been tested by time before marrying.

If you are interested in reading the research for yourself, click here.

Family Law Services for Same-Sex Couples

At Claery & Hammond, LLP, we advise same-sex couples on all types of family law matters that arise, including prenuptial and postnuptial agreements, divorce mediation, divorce, child custody and support, and more.

If you need legal advice, don't hesitate to contact our office to schedule a complimentary consultation with an experienced and caring member of our legal team!

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