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  5. Facing the unique challenges when getting a gray divorce

Facing the unique challenges when getting a gray divorce

On Behalf of Ed Shaw Law | Oct 2, 2019 | Divorce |

In Minnesota and across the United States, a growing number of older people are moving forward with a divorce. This is frequently called a “gray” divorce. The reasons for divorce can range from no longer having the same life goals to experiencing boredom, dissatisfaction and unhappiness. While the overall divorce rate has been in decline and is at its lowest point in four decades, people 55 and older are increasingly choosing to part ways.

There are unique challenges with gray divorce. Alimony is a common concern in any divorce, but older people are likely well advanced in their career. This can complicate the amount of alimony because the salary can have different aspects like bonuses and stocks in addition to salary. Since Minnesota is an equitable distribution state, the court seeks to come to a fair split, and it might not be 50-50. Assets and income can be impacted.

If there were inheritances during the marriage, it will likely be categorized as separate property and not be shared. However, it is not always that easy. Assets could be mixed together, and there is potential for dispute. In addition, Social Security is accrued through a person’s earnings. The spouse might have the right to get a portion of the Social Security benefits. The marriage generally must have lasted for at least 10 years and meet other restrictions.

Often, when spousal support is ordered, the paying spouse will need to have life insurance to protect the person receiving payments in case of death. Those in the middle of a gray divorce will probably have retirement accounts and pension plans as well that could be divided. For advice and guidance throughout a gray divorce, having legal assistance may be critical.

Why do different states have different laws?

by Edward Shaw | Jun 30, 2025 | General Law

I get asked the question all of the time, why are the laws different in each state, and, why do people need to get different lawyers when they have legal issues in other states. The answer goes back to the founding of our country, we have always had a federal system,...

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Will I lose everything in Chapter 7 bankruptcy? 

On Behalf of Ed Shaw Law | Jun 5, 2025 | Bankruptcy

Chapter 7 bankruptcy helps erase debts when you cannot pay them and give you a fresh financial start. However, many people think of bankruptcy as losing everything. Fortunately, Minnesota laws protect essential assets.  Confidence comes from knowing your rights—learn...

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What is the difference between legal and physical custody?

On Behalf of Ed Shaw Law | Apr 23, 2025 | Family Law

If you're going through a custody issue in Minnesota, it's important to understand the difference between legal and physical custody. These terms may sound similar, but they each play a different role in your child's life. Understanding legal custody Legal custody...

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JAIL PHONES

by Edward Shaw | Apr 4, 2025 | Criminal Defense

Many of you have seen movies involving phone calls from a jail or prison, maybe some of you have gotten calls from a jail or prison.  If you have, you may be familiar with the message that often plays 'This call is from a correctional institution and may be...

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EXPERT WITNESSES

On Behalf of Ed Shaw Law | Mar 27, 2025 | Firm News

Most people outside of the legal system have never heard of expert witnesses, a critical part of the legal system.  Unlike regular witnesses, who can testify about what they observed or heard, experts can offer opinions.  Experts are used to explain a variety of...

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Contracts for Deed

by Edward Shaw | Mar 12, 2025 | Business Law

They are an alternative method of financing the purchase and sale of property.  Instead of the buyer getting a bank loan, payments are made to the seller.  The arrangement has its advantages, by taking payments over time a seller can in some cases save on taxes. ...

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WHEN DO YOUR RIGHTS HAVE TO BE READ TO YOU

by Edward Shaw | Jan 31, 2025 | General Law

I have written on this topic before, but, because it is a source of a lot of misunderstanding among the general public, it needs more attention. Police shows for decades have shown people being arrested and read the Miranda warning, 'their rights', you have the right...

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When can you sue someone for something they say?

by Edward Shaw | Jan 24, 2025 | Civil Law, General Law

Free speech is a cornerstone of our society, for good reasons.  A democracy depends on people being able to express their opinions about anybody, and anything.  Even the richest and most powerful in society can be criticized by any citizen in a free society. Like all...

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MONEY AND DIVORCE

On Behalf of Ed Shaw Law | Jan 13, 2025 | Firm News

When divorces are tough there are usually issues with money.  The rules on dividing assets, money, real estate, vehicles, anything of value, are simple, it is generally divided equally, regardless of who earned it, or whose name is on it.  The exception is...

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Tips for co-parents to keep the holiday season peaceful and joyous

On Behalf of Ed Shaw Law | Dec 6, 2024 | Custody

Co-parenting presents challenges throughout the year, but the holiday season can amplify these difficulties, even for those who maintain a cordial relationship with their former spouse. From Thanksgiving through the end of the year, the added stress of coordinating...

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  • Why do different states have different laws?
  • Will I lose everything in Chapter 7 bankruptcy? 
  • What is the difference between legal and physical custody?
  • JAIL PHONES
  • EXPERT WITNESSES

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