Divorce Rate Doubles for Older Americans

Called the "gray divorce" trend, more Americans aged 50 and above are getting divorced according to statistics. Back in 1990, one in ten divorces in this country involved people in the 50-plus age group. In today's world, that statistic has jumped to one in four. According to a study by the National Center for Family and Marriage Research done at Bowling Green State University in Ohio, the divorce rate among this age group has doubled between the years 1990 and 2010. Factors contributing to the huge increase include more seniors in the population, more women with their own careers and independent income, less social stigma involved in divorce, and the no-fault divorce rules that apply in states across the nation.

Generally, the more educated the individuals in a marriage are, the less likely they are to divorce. Other factors also work in favor of marriages, such as the trend towards marrying later, after college educations have been completed and partners are earning sufficient incomes. An additional factor which poses a risk to marriage is unemployment, which causes financial stress on the partners.

Traditionally, retirees have enjoyed the lowest rates of divorce. That may be changing, however, with the rapidly increasing divorce rate among the over-50 crowd. Along with changes in the divorce rate among this group are changes in how divorce will affect these older Americans. Issues such as health insurance, home equity, and the lack of job skills for an older individual, such as a mother who has stayed at home for her children's sake, can all be troublesome matters which will seriously affect the outcome and long-term effects for many.

Divorce and Family Law Representation in Denver, Colorado

Getting through a divorce or navigating any other family law matter can be a difficult experience. Issues involved in this legal field are intensely personal and highly emotional for most people. That is why it is vital to seek the legal guidance of an attorney who is experienced in handling them in your local area. What you decide in a divorce, child custody dispute, or other family law issue can affect you for many years into the future.

Jones Law Firm, PC, based in Denver, has been providing effective legal representation to those involved in family law matters since 1991. The firm offers divorce litigation alternatives, such as collaborative divorce and divorce mediation as well as assistance with other matters such as paternity cases, domestic violence, father's rights, grandparents' rights, legal separation, military divorce, and more. Work with an experienced attorney to get the guidance and support you need with any family law issue. Contact the firm to arrange for a confidential consultation about your legal matter today.