More California couples than ever are seeking to end their long-term marriages. In many cases, a late-life (gray) divorce arises when a couple grows apart or no longer shares the same life goals.
Whatever the reason for the divorce, couples married for a long time – say 25 years or longer – often have complicated financial concerns. For example, one spouse may have fewer financial prospects than the other spouse. When this is the case, the one with fewer resources may feel concerned about making their way alone.
If you qualify, alimony can improve your situation
At one time in the U.S., alimony was considered easier to acquire than it is in these more modern times. Now, courts only award spousal support when it is necessary. One of the factors courts in California look at when making spousal support decisions is your age.
Other factors include your:
- Physical condition and health
- Capacity to earn an income
- Financial condition and prospects
- Standard of living while married
Courts in California also consider how long the couple was married when making decisions about alimony. All these factors combined often means that older residents married for many years could have an easier time acquiring some form of spousal support.
Even if you are ineligible for permanent support, you may qualify for rehabilitative alimony until you can support yourself without assistance. Other spousal support options to consider include:
- Reimbursement alimony to help pay for training or education that can improve your earning capacity
- Temporary alimony if you are currently separated but still married
- Lump-sum alimony if you would rather receive money instead of a property settlement
We recommend familiarizing yourself with the laws governing spousal support and property division if you are getting a late-life divorce.