Choosing Legal Separation Over Gray Divorce
Not all divorces occur between young couples. As people reassess their lives and what is important to them, they may find that what their future holds is something that does not include their current spouse, regardless of how long they have been married. If you have been with your spouse for a significant amount of time and as you enter into your golden years, you believe that it is best to end your marriage, you may be looking into what is called a gray divorce. Gray divorce rates across the country appear to be on the incline.
If you are thinking about gray divorce, there are many considerations that must be worked through. Over the course of a married couple’s life, the accumulation of assets and wealth can be significant. The financial complications that can come with an older couple divorcing can be substantial. Everything from retirement benefits to benefits from social programs and health insurance is all on the table.
For help with a gray divorce in Oklahoma, the Oklahoma City divorce attorney at the Putnam Law Office offers guidance and assistance.
Why Choose Legal Separation Instead of Gray Divorce?
Due to the complicated nature of a couple’s financials who are thinking about divorcing, in some situations, a legal separation may be the preferred method. In a legal separation, the benefits of marriage are maintained but the living situation can be separate and private. There is still the need to go through many of the same issues, like asset division, that would happen in a divorce. However, there is no rush to work these things out.
Choosing separation over divorce may be a functional and much easier way for a couple to go their own ways while still having the comforts of the practical aspects of their marriage available. Think of health insurance coverage, for example.
Also, a separation does not mean that the marriage is formally terminated. As such, if it becomes apparent that separation was not the right choice, the separation order can be dissolved. A couple can go back into their legal marriage together with ease.
On the other hand, if separation seems to be working out well where it makes sense that a divorce is necessary, taking the separation order and turning it into a divorce order is typically something that can be done easily.
After so many years of marriage, it can be difficult to understand the realities of life as an independent single person. Legal separation is a softer way for an older couple to ease into living apart without the finality of divorce.
Speak with an Oklahoma City Divorce Attorney Today
If you are ready to make a change in your life with regard to your relationship with your spouse, you may not know what your options are and need more information to make the most informed decisions. Legal separation and divorce are big life changes. You do not have to hastily make them by yourself. Here, the Oklahoma City divorce lawyer at the Putnam Law Office can help. Call today to schedule a free consultation at 405-724-7701.
