The number of divorces in England and Wales, sadly, continues to rise, according to official figures.
Just over 118,000 divorces were recorded in 2012 (the most recent figures available.) This is around a one thousand increase on 2011
Figures show that divorce is most likely to occur between the fourth and eighth wedding anniversary and almost half of all divorces occur in the first 10 years of marriage.
If we look at figures over the past few decades, there are increases in the divorce rate in the early 1980s, 1990s, 2000s and 2010 …..what’s the common theme here? Recession!!!
Divorce is of course an emotional and stressful time and there is much to organise.
Your Will should be at the top of the list.
In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, a Will may be partially revoked by divorce or annulment of a marriage, or dissolution of a civil partnership. If one of these events happens it causes the parts of the Will referring to the former spouse or civil partner to lapse.
An appointment of the former spouse as executor is automatically cancelled. This could leave the will without executors if the former spouse was sole executor or with too few executors if the former spouse was one of two executors and the situation is one where more than one executor is needed. The result is extra complications following death.
Your will should always be reviewed following a life-changing event such as marriage or divorce. Please contact us for advice specific to your situation!
