If you are going through a gray divorce, you will need a dedicated Massachusetts divorce attorney on your side. Contact our firm today to discuss the specifics of your case and your options.
What is a gray divorce in Massachusetts?
A gray divorce is a divorce that concerns couples over the age of 50. These divorces have a specific name because of the recent increase in older age divorce. Gray divorces are distinct from other kinds of divorce because couples over 50 may have to deal with certain issues that other couples typically do not have to face. For example, some couples may be required to pay open durational alimony. Additionally, most couples going through a gray divorce will not have child support or child custody concerns.
What are common issues that are addressed in a gray divorce?
There are several kinds of issues that are addressed in gray divorces because they are taking place in the latter stages of a couple’s life. Some of the most common issues that come up in a gray divorce in Massachusetts include, and are not limited to:
- Alimony negotiations when one spouse is collecting social security off of the other’s earnings
- Determining alimony duration, frequency, and amount
- Determining marital property vs. separate property
- Whether or not a new life insurance policy is needed
- Dividing pension plans or other retirement accounts
- Establishing whether inheritances can be divided
- Whether or not they are required to pay for their children’s college education through child support
Is mediation a beneficial option in gray divorce?
It may be beneficial to consider the method of mediation in a gray divorce. Spouses of an older age going through it can benefit from mediation in order to settle their marital issues. This may be in the event of the following:
- They do not want to waste money. Divorces can often be expensive and spouses at an older age may either be retired or planning to retire soon. Rather than spending money on divorce through litigation, they can protect their retirement funds through mediation.
- They do not want to waste time. Spouses at an older age may not want to spend a significant amount of time in court, and divorces can sometimes take years. Mediation can be a quicker process.
- They do not want any more stress in their life. If spouses are facing other difficulties in life and they most likely do not want to go through complicated divorce proceedings. Mediation is often a healthier and more peaceful process.
Contact our experienced Bristol County firm
For over 30 years, The Law Offices of Cynthia L. Hanley, P.C. has provided quality legal support and representation for clients in Bristol County and all of Massachusetts. Our firm’s experience eases the stress of clients while providing the legal services they deserve. If you need help through a contested divorce, contact The Law Offices of Cynthia L. Hanley, P.C. for a consultation today.
