Coronavirus: Isolation will trigger rise in divorce cases - top lawyer

The coronavirus outbreak is “very likely” to lead to an increase in marriage break-ups because couples are being kept in self-isolation together, a leading divorce lawyer has said.

Baroness Shackleton of Belgravia, whose previous clients include Sir Paul McCartney, Prince Charles and Madonna, made the comments in the House of Lords after Boris Johnson urged affected households to go into voluntary lockdown in a bid to curb the spread of infection.

“The prediction amongst divorce lawyers is that following self-imposed confinement it is very likely that the divorce rate will rise,” Lady Shackleton told peers at Westminster.

"Our peak times are after long exposure during the summer holidays and over Christmas.

“One only has to imagine what it's going to be like when families are sealed in a property for a long period of time."

Shackleton’s view was echoed by divorce lawyer Amanda Rimmer, who said self-isolation could bring “simmering tensions” to the surface.

“For some, the prospect of being quarantined with their partner will be a welcome opportunity to spend time together, yet for others, it may force simmering tensions in their relationship to rise to the surface,” Rimmer said.

“Often when couples face serious and stressful situations it can lead some to re-evaluate their lives and what is important to them.

“While we all try to navigate this pandemic as best as possible, it wouldn't surprise me if, when the dust settles, we do see an increase in couples seeking to end their relationship.”

Earlier this week, the UK government issued drastic coronavirus advice which included entire households being told to stay in isolation for 14 days if anyone displays the symptoms of persistent cough or fever.

If a person who displays the symptoms lives alone, they should self-isolate for seven days.

The new measures also advised people to stop “all unnecessary travel” and stay away from pubs and clubs.

Currently, 71 people have died from coronavirus in Britain and up to 55,000 are thought to be infected, however the official count stands at just under 2,000.

According to the latest figures, global cases are nearing 200,000 and in Italy alone, deaths have reached 2,500.