Channe G. Coles of the Law Office of Channe G. Coles. Courtesy photo
Divorce, a challenging decision at any stage of life, brings unique complexities when couples end long marriages, especially after reaching their senior years. For individuals over 60 in California, dissolving a decades-long partnership demands careful consideration of legal, financial and emotional ramifications.
Understanding the Uniqueness of a ‘Gray Divorce’
Divorces among older adults, often termed “gray divorce,” present distinct challenges compared to divorces at younger ages. Although once rare, divorces among this age group have skyrocketed. A July report released July by Bowling Green State University’s National Center for Family and Marriage Research found that from 1990-2021, the divorce rate tripled among those 65 years or older. These long-term marriages tend to involve complex financial assets, retirement plans, and considerations related to spousal support, otherwise known as alimony.
