The United State Census Bureau released its statistics on marriage this week. The numbers tell an interesting story. In the 1960s, more than 80 percent of American adults were married. By 2000, the number fell to 57 percent. The recent figure for 2009 is 52 percent nationwide and 53 percent for Wisconsin. In Milwaukee County, only 41 percent of adults were married as of 2009.

The reasons for the decline are unclear. Some would argue that it is a sign of deteriorating family values. Others point out that young adults are waiting longer to get married than previous generations. Still others maintain that women no longer see marriage as a requirement for economic reasons. While the cause for the drop in marriage rates is up for debate, the effects are fairly predictable when it comes to family law.

With fewer marriages there will be less formal arrangements between couples. Many couples are choosing to live together or cohabitate.  According to the Population Reference Bureau, the decline in marriage rates “has been accompanied by a rapid increase in the number of cohabitating couples.”

When cohabitating couples break up, they do not divorce. Divorce allows married couples to divide their property, arrange for alimony (maintenance), child custody, visitation and child support. But many cohabitating couples have children and this often raises the issue of paternity, child custody, and child support.

When unmarried couples who have children separate, these issues are often left hanging and they require a court order for final resolution. The process can be complex and confusing. It is important to be fully aware of your rights and responsibilities when it comes to your children.  An experienced family law attorney can help you understand your options, rights, and responsibilities.

Source: MilwaukeeNewsBuzz.com: Is Wisconsin losing its taste for wedlock?; Matt Hrodey, 9/30/2010