Tips On Surviving Gray Divorces
Divorcing at an older age can be far different than divorcing when younger. You have decades of shared experience and have grown an identity as a couple. Financial concerns can be more pressing, and you may be faced with medical expenses or helping adult children pay for college. With these concerns in mind, here are some tips to help you handle your late-in-life divorce.
Get Professional Help
You have more to lose than a younger person, so it’s important to seek professional help to get through your divorce. Find a divorce attorney who is experienced in “gray divorce” cases, and will understand how your concerns are different than younger divorcees’. You should build yourself a network of support. This network includes your lawyer, but also should include a certified divorce financial planner and a therapist or divorce coach. You need support in this emotionally trying time.
Consider Alternatives to Litigation
A court battle is expensive and stressful. If your divorce can be resolved out of court, you should try to do so. Mediation uses a third party to help couples divide their lives, and the mediator works to make sure both parties are heard. Collaborative divorce allows you and your spouse to work out the terms of your divorce in a series of meetings, rather than in court.
Understand Your Finances
You will need to understand your current finances, and what your future financial state may look like. Work with a financial advisor to help you plan for what’s ahead. They can help you understand the tax implications of your divorce and help you plan for what you can afford, such as moving or keeping your home.
Accept Your Lifestyle May Change
You may be used to certain things, but divorce can bring big changes. You may not be able to afford what you once could, and may have to move or downsize your life. You may decide to begin dating again after the divorce. You may have to talk to adult children about the divorce and comfort them. Whatever you are facing, learn to accept it. Make the changes you need to make, and you can find yourself flourishing after your divorce.
Find a Source of Income
If you were retired, working part time, or unemployed, you will need to find a way to support yourself. You may have some support from your divorce settlement, but you will want to have other means of paying your bills. Look into career options and education programs for those returning to the workforce or looking for a career change. The more you are able to support yourself, the more comfortable you will be in the long run.
Divorces later in life can face unique challenges. Facing these challenges doesn’t have to be a struggle with the right tools and support. Find those who can encourage you and help you through this emotional time, including your attorney.
Are you facing a divorce later in life? Our Long Island divorce lawyers offer compassionate, dedicated legal advocacy. Our firm has over 100 years of collective experience, and we can offer you personalized, affordable legal services. Contact The Hedayati Law Group P.C. today to schedule a free case evaluation.
May 30, 2024 – Al Hedayati, Esq.