Get Married? Or Live Together? Which One is Better in Michigan? (Part 1)

Should you tie the knot, or just bundle all the rope together… for now?

 

We live in a time when marriage is slowly falling out of favor. People are getting married later and later in life (or not at all) and having fewer kids later in life (or none at all) At one point within our parents lifetimes people who didn’t marry in their early twenties and start families soon after, were considered unusual. Nowadays it is completely normal for someone to stay single well into their thirties, and to choose their career over kids.

 

Fewer millennials get married than any previous generation!

 

With that in mind, more and more people are choosing to live together without tying the knot. Moving in, making major purchases together, including new homes, and even having kids together. All without formalizing any kind of legally binding contract. For some people, it sounds like a disaster, but for others, it’s the perfect stress-free agreement – all the perks of marriage without the paperwork and expensive wedding. And without the almost certain divorce waiting at the other end. But is that really true? Let’s take a look…

 

Divorce rates may be high, but break up rates are higher!

 

While it’s true that half of married couples are likely headed for divorce, the statistics for couples living together are actually even worse! According to the results of a study conducted by the National Survey of Family Growth, only thirteen percent of cohabiting couples stayed together. Which, conversely, means eighty seven percent don’t. Which means that while divorce rates here in the US are really high, the ‘break up’ rates for couples living together are even higher!

 

What about children? How are they affected by parents who live together?

 

Interestingly, remarriage after divorce is often cast in a rather negative light when there are children involved. This is because studies have shown that children usually fare better when raised by two biological parents, as opposed to one biological parent and one stepparent.  However, statistics show that cohabiting parents are even less of a desirable option in many cases.

 

Living together instead of marrying can negatively impact kids.

 

According to recent research, children whose parents live together instead of getting married showed higher instances of developing negative life habits. From higher instances of developing alcohol and nicotine addictions to increased overall lower quality economic situations, children whose parents didn’t commit to one another tend to struggle more in life. Research also showed that they’re more likely to have difficulties in their intimate relationships as adults.

 

What is the right decision to make for your future and family?

Join us next time to look at the legalities involved in living together rather than getting divorced. Until then, the skilled family law attorneys at The Kronzek Firm would like to remind you that regardless of your situation – whether married, divorced, or somewhere in between – we are here for you. We’ve handled countless divorces in Michigan, and will work with your to protect your interests and ensure the best possible outcome for your family. Call us at 866 766 5245 today. We are here to help.

 


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