Since the 1990s, an increasing number of married couples in New Jersey and across the country have decided to end their spousal relationships. There are numerous factors cited as reasons for divorce among spouses age 50 and beyond. Such situations often include financial implications and other complex issues that younger spouses do not necessarily experience when they decide to divorce.
Many older spouses say they spent decades being caught up in the day-to-day business of their lives, especially with regard to raising children. Once children are grown and move out on their own, parents may suddenly realize they have nothing left in common with each other. The empty nest syndrome often prompts divorce when spouses determine they are no longer compatible and merely stayed married because they had children at home.
Some couples say they were able to avoid splitting up by recharging their romantic relationships after their kids moved out. Dating each other again and igniting new sparks during intimate encounters has reportedly helped many spouses through their empty nest depression. Some spouses, however, determine they have grown too far apart and are better off going their separate ways.
While older spouses who divorce do not typically encounter custody or child support issues because their children are adults, they may find it challenging to negotiate settlements when disagreements arise regarding retirement benefits, taxes, marital assets, liabilities and other issues. Any New Jersey spouse currently concerned about such matters may seek support by consulting with an experienced family law attorney. Experienced legal counsel is often the key to achieving an agreeable settlement.