Global News: Spike in Divorce Amid the Pandemic - Insights from Shulman & Partners

Shulman & Partners LLP shared their insights on Global News about a question many families asked as the pandemic dragged on: would COVID-19 change the rate of separation and divorce. While the segment noted there was no hard official statistical data available yet, it also referenced that family law professionals were reporting more inquiries about separation and divorce during lockdowns. The discussion explored how prolonged time in close quarters can intensify existing relationship strain, with financial stress often adding another layer of pressure. It also touched on the practical realities facing separated parents, including disagreements about pandemic safety measures and schooling decisions. The interview offered grounded context on how families have been navigating these challenges, and how dispute resolution and court processes adapted to virtual formats.

The segment focused on a question that surfaced early in the pandemic and persisted as restrictions continued: would prolonged uncertainty and lockdown conditions lead to more separations and divorces, or would couples put major decisions on hold. The host noted that official statistics were not yet available, but the discussion referenced widespread reports from family law professionals of increased calls from people looking to begin separation or divorce proceedings.

Shulman & Partners LLP explained that this trend is consistent with what can happen when a relationship is already close to breaking down. Extended periods of being confined together can amplify existing conflict, bringing underlying issues to the surface more quickly. Financial strain was also discussed as a factor that can contribute to relationship stress and help crystallize decisions that may have been delayed in more stable times.

The interview also emphasized that not all pandemic-related family law calls involve brand-new separations. The firm noted that many people had already separated before COVID-19, but have since faced fresh parenting disputes tied directly to the pandemic. These disputes can include different comfort levels around public health guidelines and concerns about whether the other parent is taking appropriate precautions, creating tension and uncertainty in already delicate co-parenting arrangements.

A major practical area highlighted was decision-making about children, especially where custody issues overlap with health and education. The discussion referenced how pandemic-related parenting conflicts have included disagreements about whether children should attend school in person or learn online. The segment noted that these decisions can be difficult because parents may weigh risks and benefits differently, including the child’s academic and social needs, and whether virtual learning is feasible given a parent’s job and responsibilities. The interview also referenced that in-person attendance is generally favored unless it creates an unacceptable risk of harm to someone in the household.

Finally, the segment addressed how the legal system and dispute resolution options have adapted. It noted that many processes have shifted online, including virtual court appearances, mediation, and arbitration. With courts described as heavily backlogged and focused on urgent matters, the discussion encouraged practical, cooperative solutions where possible, and emphasized the value of understanding rights and obligations before taking next steps.

Listen to the full Global News segment here.

This media appearance is part of Shulman & Partners LLP’s ongoing contributions to Canadian family law discussions. Explore more of our media features in our In the Media  archive.