Religion can potentially increase the chances of a divorce, although it certainly does not have to under every circumstance. Religion often plays a central and key role in one or both spouses’ lives. Even if the two are of the same religion, one could be more into religious practice than the other spouse. Although the two spouses being of different religions does not necessarily increase the chances of divorce, it can present issues that they would need to navigate to have a successful marriage. Religion can play a role in the actual divorce proceedings, as it may relate to child custody as well.
To be clear, religion does not always have to lead to conflict between spouses. Religion can actually play a role in building a strong and healthy marriage when both spouses are on the same page. However, religion can also lead to conflict, especially when the spouses have different levels of faith and observance. These complex issues can eventually come to a head, either because of disagreements in daily life or those surrounding specific holidays.
Religion Often Comes Into Play in Matters Involving Children
When there are any issues relating to children, the court will consider the best interests of the child. They may not necessarily impose something on the children just because it is the individual parent’s religion. The court would look at the role of religion in the child’s life before the divorce as part of its decision-making process. Religion could be factored into:
- The ultimate decision as to which parent receives physical custody, or whether it is shared
- The visitation schedule for the parent who does not have physical custody
- How the child is to be educated
- What role will religion play in the decision-making for the child
The court may not automatically side in favor of more religious observance for the children. Typically, if matters of religion and the children are litigated, a judge may look at the level of religious observance in the marriage and try to sustain that. Again, the court cares most about the children and what is best for them, as opposed to what one individual parent wants.
Religion can further play a role in child custody and support issues because of the potential expenses that are necessary. For example, the children may require a religious education as part of the marital separation agreement or court order. In that event, the parents may disagree on how to split the expenses of the education. Further, there may be additional expenses, such as religious observances and ceremonies. For example, a boy may need a Bar Mitzvah when they reach the age of 13, and the parents may need to determine how it is to be funded.
Religion Will Generally Not Affect Financial Matters Other Than Child Support
Religion will not play a role in the equitable distribution of assets and determination of alimony. When it comes to dividing marital assets, the court would use a number of factors to determine the exact split, and religion is not one of them. Alimony is determined based on percentage shares of income, and religion similarly does not play a role in that. An experienced divorce lawyer can give you further advice about specific situations that have arisen in your marriage.
Contact the Marlton Divorce Lawyers at Burnham Douglas Today if You Have Questions Regarding How Religious Issues Can Affect Your Divorce
To learn more about the legal issues surrounding your potential divorce, reach out to the Marlton divorce lawyers at Burnham Douglas. Our lawyers can review your situation and give you specific advice that is tailored to your situation. You can schedule a free initial consultation with one of our divorce lawyers by calling us today at 856-751-5505 or contact us online. Our offices are located in Marlton and Northfield, New Jersey, and we proudly serve clients in South Jersey-Marlton, Evesham Township, Cherry Hill, Camden County, Burlington County, Northfield, and Atlantic City.