How to Deal With Divorce After Decades of Marriage

 Posted on December 00,0000 in DuPage County divorce lawyer

Marital dissolution can be daunting for anyone, but if you have been married for several decades, the idea can be even more terrifying. Not only are there emotional issues to resolve that come with the idea of splitting with a spouse who has inevitably become an extension of oneself, there are also more practical issues such as finances, living arrangements, and issues of long-term care during the aging process. According to the Huffington Post, while addressing these issues is crucial for finding peace of mind after divorce that follows a multi-decade marriage, divorce may still be the best option. If you are not happy in your marriage, the best bet is to separate, regardless of how old you are or how long you have been married.

The first major issue to resolve in a long-term marriage divorce is that of finances. When you begin divorce talks, not only will you need to discuss the issues of property division, but also those surrounding pensions, Social Security, and insurance coverage. If you will be required to pay spousal maintenance, this is also an important issue to consider, especially if you are nearing retirement age. Seeking the counsel of a legal professional who has experience with later-in-life divorce is crucial, as finances are likely more limited nearing retirement age than they were in years past.

While in most cases of marital dissolution selling the marital home is a good idea, it could leave both parties worse for ware in a long-term marriage divorce. If selling the home does not make financial sense, determining which spouse will remain in the house can be difficult for both parties. In some cases, especially those in which you have several years left on the mortgage, it could make more sense to hold on to the house.

Issues of caregiving are also important to address when considering a late-in-life divorce. According to the National Alliance for Caregiving and as reported by the Huffington Post, more than 65 percent of caregivers are women who are likely the spouses of the ill. This, of course, is important for men seeking a gray divorce to consider. Ensuring that you have a plan for aging, when you may no longer be able to care for yourself, is crucial.

If you or someone you know is considering a gray divorce, the most important step is to seek the counsel of a qualified attorney. Contact a DuPage County divorce attorney today.