Divorce is challenging for all who go through the process, but for older couples, separating can be life-altering. Not only are you leaving the person you’ve spent much of your life with, but a gray divorce can come with its own complex and unique challenges. For instance, many older adults underestimate how much they should consider the connections between alimony and gray divorces. If you’re leaving your partner, ensuring you contact Los Angeles gray divorce attorneys to help you through the process is essential. Keep reading to learn why alimony is something you shouldn’t underestimate.
What Is a Gray Divorce?
Also referred to as “later-in-life” divorces, the “gray divorce” is a phenomenon in which adults over the age of 50 end their marriages. The “gray” refers to the graying hair many older adults will experience as they age.
This has become much more common as divorce has become much more socially acceptable. Even while the divorce rates for other age groups are decreasing, divorce among older adults is increasing. These tend to be adults who have been in a relationship for a long period.
What’s So Special About Alimony and Gray Divorces?
When thinking about divorce, it may not seem worth it to spend time looking into alimony. However, spousal support impacts older adults, as alimony payments will likely last for the rest of their lives. This is because younger couples anticipate returning to work or remarrying, which is when alimony will cease. However, the courts cannot expect an older adult to return to the workforce when deciding whether or not to grant alimony.
It is also important to note that a court may not grant alimony if they believe the receiving spouse has more than enough assets and funds to live comfortably. Similarly, they may also decide that the retirement benefits one spouse has may be awarded to both spouses due to California’s community property statute of distributing marital property during a divorce.
Do I Need an Attorney for a Later-In-Life Divorce?
Whether you have a prenup in place or are ending things amicably with your spouse, you may think that you don’t need a lawyer. However, you should still contact an attorney when you know you will be going through a divorce, as you may be entitled to alimony payments.
At the Zitser Family Law Group, we have the experience you need to help you navigate this transition period in your life. Our dedicated legal team understands the complexities of gray divorces and how challenging they can be, especially when you still hold a special place for your ex-spouse. Contact us today to learn more about how we may be able to help you receive the alimony you deserve.
