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Ways to prepare for a gray divorce

On Behalf of | Oct 17, 2020 | Divorce |

Getting a divorce isn’t always an easy choice to make — especially if you’ve been married for many years. At the end of the day, the option is yours. And if you believe that staying married isn’t a healthy choice for you, then it’s never too late or you’re never too old to seek a divorce.

After years or decades together, it’s likely that even though your relationship has drifted, you still share a lot of history. This might include complicated marital assets and children, extended family and friends that you share. So, as you prepare for a late-life divorce, it’s essential to take collaboration, list-making and expert opinions into consideration.

Have thoughtful conversations

Take the time to prepare for divorce discussions by listing out topics you’d like to go through with your soon-to-be-ex. This can include gathering their thoughts on selling the family home or litigation versus mediation.

If conversations quickly turn into arguments, consider participating in personal or group therapy to learn how you can put your differences aside when working on a divorce resolution. Although your relationship may have hit an irreparable rough patch, it’s best to stay open-minded with your spouse once you decide that divorce is the route you want to take. Plus, outside help might help you learn how to approach heavy talks you’ll need to carry out with loved ones who might shocked about or disapprove your decision to divorce.

Ready your finances

A good starting point to preparing your finances for divorce is creating a comprehensive list of all your marital assets and debts. This may include bank accounts, credit card debt, insurance policies, retirement plans, mortgages and real estate or other investments.

Getting professional financial advice can also set you up for a smoother settlement process. You’ve probably come to a point where you don’t even know what it’s like to have separate finances or bank accounts. Potentially nearing retirement and already having a will in place gives you even more financial aspects to consider. So, hearing tips and getting guidance from advisors or attorneys who’ve helped couples before you might help you preserve both your finances and your sanity.

It might be tough to see eye to eye in the moments leading to the end of your marriage. But since you won’t be a part of each other’s lives soon enough and want to be financially secure post-divorce, it’s worth working through difficult conversations and taking careful steps to secure a fair share of your joint assets.