Is gray divorce more complicated?

by wreedcontentcustoms | May 3, 2023 | Divorce

Divorce can happen at any age, and couples dissolving their marriages after 50 is becoming more common. Gray divorce follows the same procedure as divorces between younger couples, but it may be slightly different. Does this mean the divorce will necessarily be more complicated?

Here is what you should know:

It can be complicated

Gray divorces can be complicated because the spouses may have been married for a long time. It can be challenging to leave a life one has known for almost 20 or more years. This deep emotional connection can make divorce after 50 more complicated.

Further, gray divorces involve issues, such as retirement, social security, long-term care and estate planning, which in themselves can have complex processes. Additionally, due to the length of the marriage, couples may have a lot of marital assets, which can make property of division more difficult.

Also, although not true, some people going through gray divorces can be worried that they won’t find another person. And this can make them uncooperative or ask for unfair requests. Another worry may be financial stability, especially for a party that gave up their career long ago. They may be stressed about how they will maintain their standard of living, and this can lead to complex alimony and property division battles.

It can be easier

On the contrary, gray divorces can be easier because most people have a better understanding of their emotions by 50. Even though the length of the marriage may make one more emotional, they may know how to navigate this and, in turn, make rational decisions.

In addition, most parents in gray divorces have older children, which means they may not deal with complex child custody cases.

No matter what your situation, a divorce can end up being more complex than you anticipate, and gray divorces are no exception. It will be best to get legal help if you are going through it to make the right moves.