Economic consequences and wealth effects based on longitudinal research
These are population-level economic patterns from research studies. Individual outcomes vary dramatically based on income, assets, state laws, and specific circumstances. This is NOT financial advice or prediction of your outcome.
27-30%
Average decline in standard of living
(Weitzman 1985, updated Peterson 1996)
10-15%
Average decline in standard of living
(Amato 2014, McManus & DiPrete 2001)
These percentages reflect immediate post-divorce economic impact. Long-term trajectories vary significantly based on remarriage, career advancement, child support compliance, and individual earning capacity. The gap often narrows over 5-10 years but wealth accumulation differences persist.
Divorce at age 35-40 disrupts wealth accumulation during peak earning years. The effect compounds over time due to lost investment growth and retirement contributions.
Retirement Account at Age 35
$100,000
Before divorce
After 50/50 Division
$50,000
Each party receives
Value at Age 65 (7% growth)
$380K
vs. $761K if undivided
Lost opportunity: Each party loses ~$381K in compounding growth over 30 years. This assumes no additional contributions - actual loss often higher due to reduced savings capacity post-divorce.
Combining legal fees, moving costs, and establishing second household:
Low-Conflict
$30K-$50K
Moderate-Conflict
$60K-$100K
High-Conflict
$150K-$300K+
These are combined costs for both parties. Individual exposure varies by income and conflict level.
60-70%
Full compliance rate
15-20%
Partial payment
15-20%
No payment
Non-payment or underpayment creates significant financial strain, particularly for mothers who comprise 80%+ of custodial parents. This compounds the wage gap and career interruption effects.
Enforcement Challenges:
Measures current financial stress and disagreements - predictive of post-divorce financial conflict and child support disputes.
Provides education on attorney costs, child support obligations, and sole breadwinner considerations - enabling financial planning.
State-specific child support estimates and attorney cost ranges - educational preparation for potential financial exposure.
Take the comprehensive assessment to evaluate your financial exposure patterns.