40% jump in divorce inquiries during coronavirus lockdown

Divorce inquiries have increased by more than 40% during the coronavirus lockdown, according to lawyers.
Co-op Legal Services saw a 42% increase in divorce inquiries between March 23 and mid-May, in comparison to the same period last year.
Co-op Legal Services said that during some weeks of the lockdown it saw inquiries jump by 75% compared with 2019.
Friday is said to be the most common day for people to inquire about divorce, followed by Tuesday.
Tracey Moloney, head of family law at Co-op Legal Services, said: “We know that divorce can be a difficult decision at any time, and often couples have already considered divorcing for a number of months and tried mediation before they begin the process. Currently, concerns about finances, employment, coupled with the fact that households are having to spend an increased amount of time together can add strain on relationships.
“However, divorce is life changing for all involved and so it’s really important that couples don’t go into divorce lightly and as a result of the current situation we find ourselves in.”