Divorce after 50—often called “gray divorce”—is becoming more common as couples reevaluate their lives, priorities, and goals later in life. Unlike younger couples, those in their 50s and beyond often face complex emotional and financial considerations such as retirement accounts, pensions, real estate, and adult children. Traditional litigation can make this process stressful, expensive, and emotionally draining.
Understanding the Rise of Gray Divorce. In recent years, a growing number of couples over 50 have chosen to end their marriages—a trend often referred to as “gray divorce.” While divorce at any age is emotionally challenging, couples later in life face unique issues that make the process more complex. In Minnesota, those nearing or already in retirement must navigate questions about financial stability, estate planning, and long-term care—all while trying to preserve dignity and respect for both parties.
Unlike younger couples, those in gray divorces often share decades of memories, adult children, and deeply intertwined finances. Traditional litigation can make this difficult transition even more painful
Divorce may end a marriage, but it doesn’t end the need to parent together. For many Minnesota parents, the hardest part begins after the divorce — when day-to-day parenting challenges resurface without the structure of a shared household. From scheduling conflicts to differences in discipline and communication breakdowns, co-parenting problems can quickly impact both parents and children. Understanding these common issues — and knowing where to find professional guidance — can make all the difference.
Divorce is often described as one of the most stressful life events a person can experience. It involves major changes in finances, living arrangements, and family dynamics, all while emotions run high. While conflict may seem unavoidable, there are ways to reduce the tension and create a smoother process for everyone involved.
Focusing on Communication
One of the most emotionally charged questions in a Minnesota divorce is, “Who gets the house?” For many couples, the marital home is more than just a property—it’s a place filled with memories, stability for children, and often the single largest financial asset. Deciding what happens to it requires balancing both emotional and legal considerations.
Marital vs. Non-Marital Property
In Minnesota, property division is guided by the concept of “equitable distribution.” This means assets are divided fairly, but not necessarily equally. If the home was purchased during the marriage, it is generally considered marital property. However, if one spouse owned it before marriage or inherited it
Divorce is never an easy process, and one of the most common questions that arises in Minnesota is, “What is a wife entitled to in a divorce?” While every case is unique, Minnesota divorce law follows specific guidelines to ensure a fair and equitable outcome. Understanding your rights and responsibilities can help you navigate the process with less stress and more clarity. Mediation services, like those provided by AMS Mediation
The safety of clients, ourselves, and colleagues is our top priority while we remain available to assist you as you navigate the new and uncharted territory caused by the coronavirus pandemic.
While providing virtual ADR services was not part of our plan, we have made the necessary accommodations to ensure we can continue to serve our clients during these unsettling times. All services are currently available through virtually. We are using Zoom for videoconferencing. We suggest that you download this app to your phone or the program to your computer at https://zoom.us/download.
We have resumed limited in-person services for sessions with 1 or 2 participants scheduled for a maximum of 2 hours. Masks are required in our building and in session. Availability is subject to change based on local regulations and CDC guidelines.
Our office hours remain the same and we remain available by phone and email. The main office number is 952.252.1492. Gabe can be reached via email at gabe@amsmediationplus.com.
We offer free 1-hour divorce consultations via Zoom. Potential PC and PTE clients are invited to schedule a free 15-minute phone call. Please call 952.252.1492 to set up an appointment. We are here to help!
Thank you for your patience and understanding as we all continue to adapt to these rapidly changing and chaotic times. Stay strong, stay resilient, and stay healthy!
Sincerely,
Amber Serwat & Gabe Frye
ADR Professional & ADR Assistant
