Most people in Virginia would likely agree that marriage is sometimes difficult and often requires a significant amount of work. Having children can often create additional stress. However, many people might assume that after children are grown the couple has “made it.” Contrary to this, many couples are choosing to divorce after the age of 50.
When couples choose to end their marriage after they turn 50, it is called a “gray” divorce. Some reports indicate that the rate of divorce for people who are over the age of 50 has approximately doubled in the last three decades. There are many potential reasons for this trend.
One reason is that people are living longer. Facing the prospect of 30 more years in an unhappy situation, many people are choosing to end their marriage in order to achieve a happier life. Another reason for this trend is that a divorce no longer carries the same stigma as it did decades ago; the decision to do so no longer carries the same social ramifications. A third reason is that many people — men and women alike — are financially independent; for example, many women no longer depend upon a man for financial support.
The decision to end a marriage is a difficult one to make regardless of the circumstances. Even once the decision is made, there are many others that follow and could potentially impact the person’s quality of life. Fortunately, there are attorneys who can help those seeking a divorce in Virginia seek a resolution that is both fair and reasonable.
