If you’re contemplating later-in-life divorce in California, don’t feel ashamed of it. However, often those who are divorcing later in life do have more concerns than those who are divorcing earlier, and there are some things you should consider before breaking that long-standing marital bond.

How Your Adult Children Will React

The “stay together for the kids” concept doesn’t always turn out in everyone’s favor. Just because your children are grown doesn’t mean that they won’t have feelings about the situation and, unfortunately, they’ll probably have a lot more to say. You won’t need to worry about child custody, but it can still be difficult on your kids and grandkids as well.

Asset Division

If you’ve been married a long time, it’s likely that you and your spouse not only share your home, but your cars, stocks, and other holdings. In the state of California, unless you signed a prenuptial, you are required to split these assets equally. If you have many assets you have built up over the years, then this may be difficult and will require a lawyer that is versed in divorce mediation.

Can You Make It Alone?

Just because you can’t afford to live on your own doesn’t mean you shouldn’t get a divorce, especially if there is any type of abuse going on. However, the reality is that if you have been married a long time and consider yourself a senior, you may have trouble finding a way to make ends meet. Spousal support can help no matter what time of life you get divorced, but it’s often not enough to support you fully. Consult a professional Californian lawyer to make sure that you can handle the financial burden of a divorce.

Even though a later life divorce is more challenging than a shorter divorce, there is still professional help waiting for you when you need it. Please contact us if you have any concerns or questions about your later life divorce.