There were 1,211 separation cases filed last year, the highest in a decade, according to figures obtained by The Sunday Times of Malta.

More than 10,700 couples have filed for separation since 2004, an average of 1,000 cases every year.

The average number of marriages is 2,550 per year.

Fewer couples signalled their intention to reach an amicable settlement from the outset. The divorce law lays down that a couple would have had to be separated at law or in fact for at least four years.

Asked for his reaction, Justice Parliamentary Secretary Owen Bonnici said the figures underscored the need to explain more the benefits of consensual separation once separation would take place. “We have to assist couples reach amicable settlements because when children are involved they are more conducive to better co-parenting.”

ksansone@timesofmalta.com