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Are Millennials driving down divorce rates?

By Bob Matteucci
Attorney

Millennials are known for their love of true crime documentaries, and it may be because they themselves are serial killers. The generation of people born somewhere between 1980 and 1996 have been accused of killing everything from Applebees and cable tv to golf and napkins. But are millennials also destroying divorces?

According to demographers, the answer is yes. Even though Albuquerque has the highest divorce rate in the country, we are seeing a decrease in the number of Millennial (and Gen Z) couples getting divorced. 

But hold on to your avocado toast, because the drop in divorces does not mean that Millennials do not need help from family law attorneys like Bob Matteucci. 

Why Are Fewer Millennials Getting Divorced?

There are a few reasons why Millennials are not getting divorced as frequently as Boomers and the members of Gen X.

  • Marrying Later: Millennials tend to marry at older ages compared to previous generations. Older couples often have more stability and are better prepared for marriage, reducing the likelihood of divorce. 
  • Cohabitation: Many millennials cohabit before marriage, which can serve as a trial period for the relationship. This allows couples to better understand their compatibility before committing to marriage.
  • Fewer Marriages: Fewer millennials are getting married compared to previous generations. Those who do marry may be more committed and deliberate in their choice, reducing the likelihood of divorce.
  • Education: Millennials are generally more educated than previous generations. Higher levels of education are associated with lower divorce rates, as education often leads to better job stability and financial security.
  • Financial Stability: Millennials often prioritize financial stability before marriage. Waiting to marry until they are financially secure can lead to more stable relationships since disagreements over finances are a leading cause of divorce. 

The combination of these factors is driving down the divorce rate among younger couples in New Mexico and beyond. 

Just Because You Aren’t Getting Divorced Doesn’t Mean You Don’t Need An Attorney

Although Millennials are less likely to need to hire a divorce attorney, many of them would still benefit from working with a family law attorney. Whether a couple is married or not, it is important to hire an experienced family law attorney if you are splitting up and you have children together. Negotiating a child custody agreement and parenting plan that respects the role both parents play in their child’s life is important. As is crafting a child support agreement that compliments the custody arrangement. 

Serving Families with Dignity & Compassion 

Millennials may get unfairly blamed for killing divorce, just as they have been accused of killing many other things (RIP department stores and motorcycles) but that does not mean that they will never need the assistance of a family law attorney. 
Attorney Bob Matteucci is ready to help you navigate the ups and downs of life no matter your age or marital status. He can help you put the past behind you and move forward with your next chapter. Contact Bob today to schedule a meeting and discuss your case.

About the Author
Bob Matteucci is a board certified family law specialist, with a statewide practice in the area of divorce and family law.