A quick look at gray divorce and its challenges

Divorce isn’t easy, regardless of your age. But for a few years now there’s been a growing trend of so-called “gray divorces.” These divorces involve people who age 50 and older, and they present some unique challenges. As a result, those who are going through a gray divorce need to be proactive and prepared if they hope to protect their financial interests as fully as possible.

Why gray divorces occur

Gray divorces can occur for a number of reasons. Infidelity, financial mismanagement, and simply growing apart can all spur one of these divorces. Far too often people try for years or even decades to make their struggling marriages work, which can be a big mistake. Here’s why.

The challenges seen in a gray divorce

There are many issues that can be particularly important in a gray divorce. While child custody is often a major focus in divorces involving younger people, gray divorces tend to focus more on financial matters. One of the biggest concerns for many individuals who are going through this process is division of marital assets.

Generally speaking, older individuals tend to have more assets, which means there’s a lot more at play in property division. So these individuals need to be diligent in assessing their assets to determine which assets are actually subjected to property division, and then they need to analyze any tax implications of dividing retirement accounts.

Gray divorces require skillful negotiations, too, particularly because many people who go through a gray divorce simply don’t have the time to rebuild their wealth post-divorce. This is especially true when one spouse gave up working during the course of the marriage to support the family.

Don’t face gray divorce alone

A gray divorce can be a lonely and scary process. The uncertainties can leave you stressed out and fearful for your future. But you don’t have to confront your divorce on your own. In fact, a skilled family law attorney can help you navigate the complexities of your individual case to ensure that you protect your interests as fully as possible under the circumstances.