HOUSTON GRAY DIVORCE LAWYER
“Gray” divorce refers to the legal separation of married partners who are 50 years of age or older. “Gray” divorce has risen in frequency over the years, with the United States Census Bureau reporting adults aged 55 to 64 to have the highest divorce rate for adults over the age of 20.
“Gray” divorce can result from many things: adultery, late-in-life depression, abuse, money-related issues, substance abuse issues, and more. Sometimes people just grow apart and there isn’t a definitive reason or trauma behind it. No matter what led to your “gray” divorce, don’t go about it alone. Even if you and your spouse are ending on amicable terms, it is best practice to hire a Houston gray divorce lawyer from Moffett Law Firm to aid you through the process.
How Does "Gray" Divorce Differ From Divorce at a Younger Age?
“Gray” divorce can be more complicated than divorce at a younger age. You likely have more assets, property, and money to distribute. Couples who have been together for thirty or even forty years can have difficulty navigating the division of property and determining what is marital estate and what is separate.
Texas is a community property state, meaning all marital assets are to be distributed subject to a just and right division. The presumption is that the martial assets are to be distributed equitably or 50/50; however, that is not always the case depending upon the facts of the breakup of your marriage. After years of marriage, you and your spouse likely have many community property assets and perhaps even some commingled assets and will require a knowledgeable divorce attorney for guidance. There are also unique financial aspects to a “gray” divorce, including:
- The division of retirement pensions and savings
- The loss of healthcare
- Determining spousal support
A “gray” divorce can be challenging to overcome, especially if you and your spouse have been together for many years. Having a reliable attorney on your side can help relieve some of the stress and confusion that comes with such a unique situation and guarantee your property and assets are protected.
Benefits of Hiring a "Gray" Divorce Lawyer in Texas
Don’t go through your “gray” divorce alone. Having the legal support of a reputable divorce attorney will make important and life-changing decisions easier. They can help accurately and thoroughly discuss each decision’s future implications in a way that makes sense. Additional benefits include:
Protecting Your Assets
Without a Houston gray divorce attorney, you may face a court that does not know your story or what is rightfully yours, even if it is considered marital property. A lawyer will help ensure you conclude the divorce process with what is rightfully yours.
If your partner has acquired a large sum of debt, your lawyer can help ensure you are not stuck paying for their liabilities. Car loans on a vehicle you do not operate or credit card bills on an account you did not use should not be your financial responsibility after divorce.
Spousal Support
Texas is famously difficult to acquire spousal support in. You must meet a set standard of requirements, including:
- A marriage that has lasted ten years or more
- Having insufficient funds to support yourself
Additionally, if you are the caretaker of a disabled child who requires constant care or have an incapacitating disability yourself, you may qualify for Texas’ Chapter 8 maintenance. Maintenance can either be temporary or long-term and is defined as:
“…an award in a suit for dissolution of a marriage of periodic payments from the future income of one spouse for the support of the other spouse.”
The amount of spousal support is commonly 20% of the obligor’s monthly gross income. If you meet the listed criteria, your Houston divorce attorney can help ensure you get the spousal support you deserve to maintain a happy and stable life.
Speak With a Houston "Gray" Divorce Attorney Today
Divorce is difficult at any age and for any reason. Even if both parties are willing and the split is amicable, it can be difficult to end something that has existed for so long. Divorce is much more common and accepted today, so it could be that your “gray” divorce is a natural conclusion to that chapter in your life. Either way, hiring Moffett Law Firm to guide you through the process will help ensure your financial and emotional future is protected.
With over 30 years of combined experience in the Houston area, our team utilizes a people-first approach for all our clients. With respect to their goals, our Houston gray divorce lawyers do everything in our power to fight for their rights. All consultations are confidential. To begin, fill out a contact form or give our office a call at (713) 333-5800.