Most everyone in Mississippi has friends or relatives who have gone through serious marital problems. While some might know someone who has been able to overcome such issues and restore their marital relationship, that is not always the case. In this state and elsewhere, divorce is relatively common, including for a great number of people in their 60s or 70s.
There has been a substantial increase in the divorce rate among baby boomers, as well as the previous era, known as “the silent generation.” Many of these former couples had been married for 30 or 40 years or more when they decided to file for divorce. There are several key issues that seem to influence their decisions.
Older spouses who divorce often face these issues
Data shows that the longer a couple stays married, the less likely they are to divorce. However, in the baby boomer and older generations, several issues seem to figure greatly into their decisions to file for divorce late in life:
- Financial independence among women
- Less stigma about divorce in society
- Verbal abuse
- Infidelity
- Alcohol or drug addiction
- Addiction to pornography
Long ago, most spouses would not even consider filing for a divorce, even if they were not in a happy marriage. Today, self-fulfillment is an acceptable measure of success for a marriage, and there is less stigma associated with deciding to part ways when a relationship is no longer working.
Divorce late in life can be complex
Since many older couples have more assets than they did in their younger years, Mississippi property division can be challenging in a divorce. It is wise to seek guidance and support from an experienced family law attorney. Such an attorney can help a concerned spouse protect his or her interests and ensure that he or she receives a fair settlement.
