More over-60s embracing marriage

The data for England and Wales, published on the Office for National Statistics (ONS) on 11 June, looked at marriages that took place in 2012. Its analysis revealed that marriages among men and women aged 65 to 69 increased significantly by 25% and 21% respectively in 2011, the largest percentage increase in any age group.

Most marriages took place in the 25 to 29 age group but the average age for men marrying in 2012 was 36.5 and 34 for women. The average for both men and women has increased by almost eight years since 1972.

The ONS also said that an estimated 42% of marriages would end in divorce, with around half of those marriages expected to occur in the first ten years of marriage.

Whilst the increase in older people marrying is an interesting trend, when they do divorce they are likely to have more substantial assets. These may include pensions, which can form an important part of the marital asset pot and can be a significant factor in achieving financial settlements.

At Royds, our family law specialists provide our clients with an excellent professional service. We can advise on many aspects including pre-and post-nuptial agreements, the preparation and amendment of wills, trusts and inheritance issues and pension sharing arrangements. For more information, please visit or contact Patrick Hart.