Statistics show that more older people in Illinois and across the country are filing for divorce. Further, this is happening at a time when divorce rates are declining among all other age groups.
Between 1990 and 2010, the divorce rate for individuals over the age of 50 doubled. The phenomenon, known as “gray divorce,” adds another danger zone to the two previously recognized divorce peaks in marriage. The first peak occurs after around seven years of marriage, and the second happens around the 20-year mark. Now, experts are grappling with a new peak that seems to occur after the age of 50.
Apparently, there are a few possible reasons for the gray divorce trend. One is emotional disconnection. This happens because Americans are living longer, and many people realize they don’t want to spend their retirement years in an unhappy marriage. Another reason is that the social stigma that has long been attached to divorce is decreasing. This change in thinking has made it possible for older people to free themselves from relationships they may have felt pressured to stay in before. That said, experts say that many marriages can be saved. If a relationship is failing due to “soft reasons” like communication problems or lack of connection, it may be possible to work through the problems and avoid divorce court.
People of any age who are facing the end of a marriage might want to seek the advice of a family law attorney as quickly as possible. After reviewing the situation, the attorney might be able to offer important guidance about the divorce process. Legal counsel might also be able to obtain fair agreements on property division, alimony, child custody, child support, visitation issues and other legal matters.
