Common Mistakes To Avoid During A Gray Divorce
Gray divorces are those that involve spouses who are over the age of 50, and they are becoming more common today. A gray divorce is inherently more complex than those involving younger individuals. This is due largely to the fact that older couples have often been together for decades. Still, there are ways to make a gray divorce easier and one of them is to avoid some of the most common mistakes made. Below, our Media divorce lawyer explains what these are.
Leading with Your Heart and Not Your Head
Any divorce has the potential to become emotional. This is particularly true during a gray divorce because couples have often been together for so many years before ending their marriage. One of the biggest mistakes that can be made during any divorce, including those involving older parties, is to lead with your emotions. A lawyer can help you keep a cool head so you can make informed decisions that will not hurt you for years to come.
Forgetting About Health Coverage
If you had coverage from your spouse’s healthcare policy and you do not qualify for Medicare, you need to obtain new coverage. Without insurance, it can quickly become expensive to get the medical care you need. There are programs available through the federal government, such as COBRA that can allow you to use your spouse’s healthcare coverage. However, these options are only temporary solutions and they too, have their own drawbacks.
Not Considering Your Children
Many people who get a gray divorce have children who are adults themselves. Due to the fact that disputes such as child custody or child support are not an issue, you may not consider the impact a divorce will have on your children. Adult children will still be affected by your divorce, so it is important to check in with them and offer any support they need. Your children may particularly feel the impact of divorce if you are still financially supporting them and will not be able to do so after your case is finalized.
Refusing to Give Up on the Family Home
Determining who, if anyone, gets the family home during divorce is always an emotional issue. During a gray divorce this can become even more contentious because the home holds so many family memories. Before digging in your heels and trying to hold onto the family home, there are some things to consider. Create a post-divorce budget and determine if you can afford the mortgage, utility bills, insurance, home repairs, property taxes, and the other expenses that come with home ownership.
Our Divorce Lawyer in Media Can Help You Avoid These Mistakes
There are many mistakes you can make during the divorce process. At Barbara Flum Stein & Associates, our Media divorce lawyer will help you avoid them so you obtain the full and fair settlement you are entitled to. Call or text us now at 610-565-6100 or chat with us online to book a consultation and to learn more.
Sources:
dol.gov/general/topic/health-plans/cobra
legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/legis/LI/consCheck.cfm?txtType=HTM&ttl=23&div=0&chpt=33&sctn=1&subsctn=0
