Divorce Since 1950

The number of children involved in divorce and annulment averaged 6.3 per 1,000 children under the age of 18 in 1950, and 7.2 by 1960. In 1970 the rate rose to 12.5; by 1975, 16.7, by 1980, 17.3 which is nearly double the 1950 rate. In 2002, 16.8 per 1000 under the age of 18 who are involved, totaling 1,280,000 children.

Regarding child support, custody and divorce laws:

Almost all bar associations provide an optional certification of legal expertise to highly qualified attorneys who prove their specialization through written tests and positive recommendations  from others attorney/members. No lawyer is required to request a certificate of specialization, however, qualifying as a legal specialist in area of the law does provides added assurance of competence for clients. State bar associations also establish public venues to hear grievances filed against member lawyers. The grievance procedure and the documents required are provided without charge to any requesting party. Also know the information provided in this site relating to child support laws is general information only and must not be deemed legal advice. Each individual's circumstance and governing laws are unique. Discuss all legal questions with a lawyer before taking any action.

An increasing number of families experience divorce each year, both in total and as a percentage of the population of the United States. Most of these people pay or receive child support. Almost all people find the child support experience difficult. Support groups and child support chatboards may provide a venue for sharing common experiences with others who are similarly situated. Be aware, because of common lack of legal expertise, misplaced good intentions about current laws and child support may cause damage. Simply put: there is no better source for legal information regarding child support laws and legal standards than a qualified family law lawyer.