The continuing increase in gray divorce while the overall divorce rate continues to drop across the United States is quite concerning. One of the first studies on the matter entitled “The Gray Divorce Revolution: Rising Divorce among Middle-aged and Older Adults” by Susan L. Brown of Bowling Green State University provided interesting insights that definitely match our experience with divorce in Louisville and Jefferson County.
The study found that “Gray Divorce” or the divorce rate for those above the age of 50 has doubled in recent years. The divorce rate for those above the age of 50 has risen to roughly 1 of every 4 divorces nationally, placing the number of gray divorces above 550,000 per year.
Many people assume divorce happens to people in their twenties or thirties, but new statistics continue to document the continuing increase in gray divorce. If you older than 50 and considering a divorce after 20 years or more of marriage it may be comforting to know you’re not alone. The recent divorce between the founder of Amazon, Jeff Bezos, and his former wife MacKenzie is an example of completing a gray divorce while protecting the financial viability of each party.
The impact of a long-term marriage upon issues such as property division, maintenance, business ownership and retirement account division can be quite complex. The divorce and family law attorneys at Dodd & Dodd have decades of experience in these matters. We can guide you through the process and help you to understand the strategies that help to lessen the emotional burden and stress while protecting your own goals and objectives.
A Professor at Evergreen State University (Olympia, Washington) recently put the issue into a different context: “If you are a healthy 65, you can expect a pretty healthy 20 years. So with the kids gone, it seems more burdensome for parents to stay in a bad relationship, or even one that has gone stale.”
There is no stigma surrounding divorce as there was in the ’50s or ’60s. The continuing increase in gray divorce reflects quality of life concerns as well as health and balance. The divorce and family law attorneys and staff of Dodd & Dodd are here to help you through the process while protecting your interests. If you are considering a divorce in Louisville or anywhere in Jefferson County we invite you to contact us or call 502-584-1108 to schedule an appointment with our experienced attorneys.
