The divorce process can be a daunting one. Between securing your finances, sorting out child custody and essentially starting your life over, you’ll have a lot on your plate as you navigate a divorce.
These issues can be magnified for those going through divorce later in life. In recent years the number of older couples splitting up, commonly referred to as “grey divorce,” is on the rise. And it raises some unique issues for couples who are well into their lives.
Many of these couples may have grown up during a time when divorce was less common or viewed as some kind of disgrace. But now that it’s more acceptable to end a marriage, these couples are realizing that they aren’t necessarily bound to stay in an unhappy relationship. In addition, often their children are grown and out of the house, which reduces some of the effects a divorce may have on them.
While older couples have less to worry about in terms of child support or custody, they often have more financial assets as issue, many of which may have been shared for most of their lives. In addition, some older adults may have concerns about what happens if they get sick down the line, or worries about being alone. Next week we’ll discuss some of those concerns and how older adults can be prepared.
If you are considering or going through a divorce, it is important to speak with an experienced family law attorney. They can help you review your personal and financial situation, protect your rights and work toward the best possible outcome for you and your family.
Source: The Huffington Post, “Coping With A Grey Divorce,” Lubov Stark, Nov. 20, 2012
