Why Couples Really Divorce: The Top 10 Reasons for Divorce in the UK
Divorce is never easy, and there is rarely a single reason why a marriage breaks down. For many couples, it is a combination of issues that accumulate over time until one or both spouses decide that they can no longer continue.
A recent survey of 5,000 clients who filed for divorce using the UK’s largest divorce filing service, Divorce-Online, revealed the top 10 reasons for divorce in England and Wales in 2025.
These reasons shed light on the most common struggles that couples face—and provide important context for anyone considering whether their marriage has reached the point of irretrievable breakdown.
The Top 10 Reasons for Divorce in 2025
Marriages end for many different reasons, but these are the ten that came up most often in the survey:
- Couples just stopped loving each other
- A spouse being bad with money
- The other party having personal problems
- Lack of love and affection
- Lack of sexual intercourse
- Lack of communication
- Addictions
- Abuse
- Money issues
- Infidelity (cheating/adultery)
Let’s look at each in more detail.
1. Couples Just Stopped Loving Each Other
By far the most cited reason was simply falling out of love.
This can happen gradually over the years, with couples realising that they no longer share the same values, priorities, or interests. Many of these divorces used to fall under the old “two years’ separation with consent” ground.
Since April 2022, the introduction of no-fault divorce means that couples no longer need to prove blame. Instead, they can simply state that the marriage has broken down irretrievably.
2. A Spouse Being Bad with Money
The second biggest reason was poor financial management. Examples included:
- Running up large credit card debts
- Gambling
- Hiding money from the other spouse
- Overspending on luxury goods
Before the no-fault law, these divorces were usually brought under “unreasonable behaviour.” Today, spouses can divorce without pointing the finger, but financial recklessness still puts enormous strain on a relationship.
3. Personal Problems
A broad category, this included mental health challenges, trust issues, and family conflicts. While these issues are not always anyone’s fault, they can make it very difficult for a marriage to survive.
This reason also previously fell under the “unreasonable behaviour” ground, and today it remains a common contributing factor to divorce.
4. Lack of Love and Affection
Many spouses reported that their partner was simply not attentive. Instead of spending time together, their partner might prioritise friends, hobbies, or nights out.
Over time, that lack of affection can feel like rejection and lead to the breakdown of intimacy and trust.
5. Lack of Sexual Intercourse
A common issue, particularly raised by men in the survey, was lack of intimacy.
While sex is not the only part of a healthy marriage, the absence of physical intimacy can cause resentment, loneliness, and eventually a decision to part ways.
6. Lack of Communication
When couples stop communicating, everything else can unravel.
Communication is essential for resolving disagreements, planning for the future, and maintaining emotional connection. Without it, even small problems—such as household chores or childcare responsibilities—can spiral into major conflicts.
In some cases, couples can rebuild communication through counselling. In others, the breakdown becomes permanent.
7. Addictions
Sadly, addictions play a role in many divorces.
The survey revealed that 1 in 4 behaviour-based divorce petitions mentioned alcohol. Other common addictions included drugs, gambling, and even online gaming.
Addictions don’t just affect the addict—they place a huge strain on their spouse and family. The cycle of broken trust, financial problems, and emotional distress often leads to separation.
8. Abuse
Abuse is one of the most serious reasons for divorce. It comes in many forms:
- Physical abuse
- Emotional or psychological abuse
- Financial abuse
Victims often endure abuse for too long out of fear or the hope that things will improve. But once abuse is present, it is a valid and urgent reason to leave a marriage.
At Parachute Law, we regularly advise clients on protective measures, including non-molestation and occupation orders, alongside divorce proceedings.
9. Money Issues
Separate from financial recklessness, this category includes broader financial disagreements:
- One spouse earning significantly more than the other
- Disputes over how money should be spent
- Resentment about debt or overspending
Money is one of the most common sources of marital stress. Over time, these disagreements can erode trust and partnership.
10. Infidelity (Cheating / Adultery)
Finally, infidelity remains one of the classic reasons for divorce.
While adultery was previously one of the formal legal grounds, it now falls under the general category of irretrievable breakdown in no-fault divorce.
It still accounts for around 10% of divorce applications in England and Wales. For many couples, discovering an affair is the final straw.
Divorce Law in England and Wales: No-Fault Divorce
Until April 2022, anyone seeking a divorce had to prove one of five grounds: adultery, unreasonable behaviour, desertion, or separation for two or five years. This often required blame and conflict.
With the introduction of no-fault divorce:
- Couples simply make a statement of irretrievable breakdown.
- Neither party needs to blame the other.
- Joint applications are possible.
- The process is simpler and usually less contentious.
This reform was designed to reduce unnecessary conflict and help couples move forward more amicably.
How Do I Go About Getting a Divorce?
To start a divorce in England or Wales, you must:
- Apply online or by post for a divorce order.
- Pay the court fee (currently £593, though help may be available if you’re on a low income).
- Wait for your spouse’s response.
- Apply for a Conditional Order (formerly Decree Nisi).
- Apply for a Final Order (formerly Decree Absolute).
The process takes at least 26 weeks due to the built-in cooling-off periods.
Many couples use an online divorce service or a solicitor for support, especially if finances, property, or children are involved.
Do I Need a Solicitor?
You are not legally required to have a solicitor. Thousands of couples divorce online without one every year.
However, if your case involves:
- Property, pensions, or business assets
- International elements
- Disputes about children
- Domestic abuse
…it’s strongly advisable to seek legal advice.
At Parachute Law, we offer affordable, fixed-fee packages that save you money compared to traditional high-street solicitors—while giving you the reassurance of expert legal support.
Key Takeaway
The top reasons for divorce in 2025—falling out of love, money issues, addictions, and infidelity—are timeless themes in relationships. What has changed is the legal process: with no-fault divorce, couples no longer have to assign blame to end their marriage.
If you are considering divorce, understanding both the emotional reasons and the legal steps can help you make informed decisions about your future.
Speak to Parachute Law Today
If your marriage has broken down and you are considering divorce, our expert family law team can guide you through the process.
- Call us on 01793 384 029
- Use our Live Chat for quick answers
- Visit parachutelaw.co.uk/divorce to learn more
We provide clear, affordable, and supportive legal advice—helping you move forward with confidence.
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