No Slowdown In Over 60s Divorce Cases

Tue, 14 Feb 2012

A family law specialist has revealed that divorce rates among Britons over the age of 60 are continuing to rise.

Brian Farrell, of north-east based Tilly Bailey and Irvine Solicitors, said that divorce in this age range is now labelled ‘silver separations’, such is the rise in the number of marriage break-ups among over-60s couples.

He commented: "The upturn in the divorce rate hit the news late last year. However, the divorce rate in the over-60s had risen a year earlier and was up again in 2010. This has surprised many but people in their 60s and 70s do not consider themselves old, and some are choosing a different future."

Mr Farrell said that the reasons for this could be that people are living longer and are more active. Couples who have grown apart might opt for a new direction and new experiences at this stage in life.

But he stressed that the issues for couples divorcing in their 60s and 70s can be complicated and require specialist expertise.

"Each case is individual and should be treated as such – we are fully aware that divorce at any age is often sad and can have serious consequences," the solicitor added.

"While children are likely to be grown up, property, pensions and inheritance are likely to be high on the list of priorities in such cases. There are more options opening up for divorce in England and Wales, which can make the process less stressful, or potentially keep the entire proceedings out of the court.

"It is important to seek professional advice which takes into account fully the individual circumstances."
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