Dubbed “gray divorce” by some, an increasing number of married couples are calling it quits after age fifty. In fact, the divorce rate for those age 50 and above doubled from 1990 to 2010, according to Bowling Green State University researchers. If you are divorcing in southern California and you’re fifty or older, be certain that you have the advice and services of a seasoned and trustworthy Orange County divorce lawyer. If your marriage is ending, here are some facts you need to know:
- Alimony is almost always granted after a long-term marriage. While younger couples may have temporary alimony agreements, it’s a quite different situation for those dissolving long-term marriages.
- Any retirement money you earned or accumulated during the marriage will probably be divided fifty-fifty.
- If you keep the house, you’ll lose something else in return, because your ex will require compensation for his or her half.
- Try to stay emotionally neutral. A contentious divorce helps no one, but don’t indulge your ex either. Your own finances and future plans are your own business. Be polite and courteous, but remain businesslike.
- Don’t isolate yourself. Make new friends, but don’t jump into a new relationship too quickly.
- Try not to depend on your adult children. A close friend your own age – someone less attached to you and your ex – can listen to you with more objectivity and understanding.
- Get a prenuptial agreement if you get married again.
- Don’t be hard on yourself. Everyone makes mistakes. If you’re over fifty, you know that what’s important is how we move forward from those mistakes.
Every divorce is difficult. You’ll need a trustworthy, experienced divorce attorney, someone you can talk with candidly about your divorce and your long-term interests. If you’re an older adult divorcing or expecting to divorce in southern California, contact an experienced Orange County divorce lawyer as quickly as possible.
