Late-Life Divorce Lawyer

Divorce at any age can be challenging, but late-life divorce, often referred to as “gray divorce,” brings unique concerns and complexities. With the divorce rate for individuals over 50 continuing to rise, issues such as asset division, debts, and spousal support become primary concerns. At Boudreaux Law Firm, our experienced late-life divorce lawyer in Augusta, GA, provides tailored legal guidance to help clients navigate the unique aspects of divorcing later in life and protect their financial futures.

Understanding Late-Life Divorce in Georgia

In Georgia, the division of assets during a divorce follows the principle of equitable division, which seeks to distribute marital assets fairly, though not necessarily equally. For those undergoing a late-life divorce, this often involves:

• Division of Retirement Accounts and Pension Plans: These benefits, accumulated over a lifetime, may be subject to division, significantly impacting financial security.
• Debts: Older couples may face issues related to shared debts accumulated over many years, including mortgages, loans, or medical expenses.
• Spousal Support (Alimony): Long-term marriages often involve spousal support to ensure both parties can maintain a similar standard of living post-divorce.
• Adult Children’s Expenses: While child custody may not be relevant, questions about ongoing financial responsibilities for adult children, such as college tuition or wedding expenses, may arise.

Each late-life divorce case is unique, requiring a personalized approach to address the specific circumstances involved. Boudreaux Law Firm is dedicated to providing the legal insight and support needed to navigate these challenges.

Why Choose Boudreaux Law Firm for Late-Life Divorce?

Attorney Todd Boudreaux brings over 25 years of experience in family law, offering skilled representation in late-life and complex divorce cases. A cum laude graduate of the University of Georgia School of Law, Todd is well-versed in Georgia’s equitable division laws and has the expertise to help clients protect their financial interests. He is admitted to practice in the State of Georgia, Georgia Court of Appeals, Supreme Court of Georgia, U.S. District Courts for the Northern and Middle Districts of Georgia, and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit.

Todd’s commitment to providing high-quality, personalized legal services has earned him recognition in the legal community and memberships in the Georgia Trial Lawyers Association, Georgia Bar Association, and Augusta Bar Association. At Boudreaux Law Firm, we prioritize the unique needs of each client, helping them navigate the late-life divorce process with confidence and clarity.

Key Considerations for Late-Life Divorce

Late-life divorces bring specific issues that require careful attention, including:

• Retirement Accounts and Investments: The division of retirement savings, pensions, and investment accounts can significantly impact financial stability. A qualified domestic relations order (QDRO) may be necessary to distribute retirement benefits.
• Social Security Benefits: Understanding how divorce may affect Social Security benefits and eligibility is crucial for financial planning.
• Health Insurance and Long-Term Care: Older adults may need to consider health insurance options and the potential need for long-term care coverage post-divorce.
• Debts and Liabilities: Addressing shared debts, including mortgages, personal loans, and medical expenses, is essential in late-life divorce negotiations.
• Estate Planning: A divorce may require updating wills, trusts, and beneficiary designations to reflect new circumstances.

Navigating these issues requires experienced legal guidance to ensure your interests are protected and you are prepared for life after divorce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How is property divided in a late-life divorce in Georgia?

Georgia follows the principle of equitable division, which aims to distribute assets fairly based on factors such as the length of the marriage, financial contributions, and future financial needs. This may include dividing retirement accounts, real estate, and other investments.

Will I be entitled to spousal support after a late-life divorce?

Spousal support, or alimony, is often awarded in long-term marriages, especially if one spouse has been financially dependent on the other. The court considers factors such as the duration of the marriage, each spouse’s financial situation, and their ability to maintain a similar standard of living.

Can Social Security benefits be affected by divorce?

Yes, Social Security benefits may be affected. If your marriage lasted at least 10 years, you may be eligible to receive benefits based on your ex-spouse’s earnings record. It’s important to discuss these details with a knowledgeable attorney.

What happens to our shared debts in a late-life divorce?

Debts accumulated during the marriage, such as mortgages, loans, or credit card balances, are considered marital liabilities and will be divided equitably. The court will assess each party’s financial situation to determine a fair distribution of debts.

Should I update my estate planning documents after a late-life divorce?

Yes, it is advisable to update your estate planning documents, including wills, trusts, and beneficiary designations, to reflect your new circumstances and ensure that your assets are distributed according to your wishes.

Contact Our Late-Life Divorce Lawyer in Augusta, GA

If you are considering a late-life divorce or have concerns about your financial future, contact Boudreaux Law Firm today. Schedule a free, confidential consultation with our experienced late-life divorce lawyer in Augusta, GA, to discuss your case and explore your legal options. We are committed to providing the trusted legal guidance you need to navigate this challenging time.