Struggling Economy Complicates Divorce and Child Custody Cases says Survey

CHICAGO, Sept. 26, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- The weak U.S. economy is creating difficulties for couples seeking a divorce and parents trying to abide by child custody arrangements.  An overwhelming 85% of respondents to the latest survey of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers have cited an increase in divorce settlement complications over housing debt during the past three years.  In addition, 53% of members are also noting an increase in child custody cases involving relocation requests being filed by parents who are finding it necessary to move.  

"Resolving divorce and child custody issues is never easy, but the current economic climate has certainly added more complications to the process," said Linda Lea Viken, president of the AAML.  "The effects of a couple's housing debt are presenting greater obstacles for attorneys, as well as the increasing number of parents who are facing the reality of a need to move.  We are seeing a notable rise in child custody relocation requests being filed with the courts.  The traditional reasons for these petitions have either been the pursuit of employment opportunities or to be with a new partner."        

Overall, 85% of AAML members reported an increase in divorce settlement complications over housing debt during the past three years, while only 14% found no change.  In addition, more than half of respondents at 53% noted an increase in child custody cases involving relocation requests during the same time period.  Interestingly enough, only 21% of the attorneys have seen an increase in child custody relocation requests actually being granted by the courts, while 66% have said there has been no change in the number of approvals over the past three years.  

About AAML

Founded in 1962, the mission of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML) is to provide leadership that promotes the highest degree of professionalism and excellence in the practice of family law.

Comprised of the top 1,600 matrimonial attorneys throughout the nation, members are recognized experts in the specialized areas of matrimonial law, including divorce, prenuptial agreements, legal separation, annulment, custody, property valuation and division, support, and the rights of unmarried couples.

SOURCE American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML)