While the term gray divorce is not a formal legal term, it does describe the reality of many individuals who end their marriages while in their 50s or later. The complexities of these cases often require legal support from gray divorce lawyers in New York who bring years of experience managing complex cases that may involve numerous properties and high-value assets.
Since 2005, The Levoritz Law Firm has provided exceptional legal services to executives, business owners, and seniors with large estates. We understand the complexities of dissolving a marriage after many years or decades. These cases require attention to detail and a knowledge of how New York divorce laws could rule on important matters like property division and spousal support.
When you work with our law firm, you gain the steadfast support of a law firm that understands how the local courts operate and how to secure favorable terms for your divorce. We never approach any two cases the same way. By taking the time to learn about your needs and goals, we can tailor the right strategy to your case so you have the resources to rebuild and move forward.
There are around 3.2 million people aged 65 and older living in New York. Gray divorce refers to divorce cases where spouses are age 50 or older. These cases are governed by the same laws that determine property division and spousal support for all New Yorkers. Gray divorces are heard at the Supreme Court, with common locations found at 60 Centre Street in New York and 360 Adams Street in Brooklyn.
Gray divorces often deal with long-term marriages where vast assets have accumulated over decades, such as retirement accounts, pensions, real estate purchases, and investment portfolios. Although some cases may involve custody disputes, gray divorces are more likely to involve considerations of property division and spousal support. These cases account for a considerable portion of the state’s divorce rate of 2.4 per 1,000 residents in a typical year.
While going through any divorce is never easy, dissolving a marriage after many years or decades of matrimonial union can lead to complex questions regarding the division of retirement assets, pensions, and Social Security benefits. Deciding who will eventually move out of a long-held home that was the center of family gatherings can lead to emotionally complex problems that must be addressed before the divorce can be finalized.
While a short-term marriage may not qualify for spousal support, the courts may carefully review requests for alimony. The financial consequences of these decisions can have far-reaching implications for both spouses. Throughout the process, having the support of an experienced family law attorney can play a crucial role in guiding the process toward a fair and favorable conclusion.
If you are in your 50s or over, the decision to hire a gray divorce lawyer should be your top priority. New York’s gray divorce laws can have serious consequences for your property rights. Whether your gray divorce case focuses on spousal support or property division, gray divorce attorneys in New York can review your case and explain your options.
Throughout the divorce, your lawyer can protect your rights and interests. If your soon-to-be ex is concealing assets from the courts, your attorney can take steps to ensure transparency. Lawyers can play a crucial role in protecting you from false accusations that could harm your case. Throughout the process, they can provide you with the guidance and encouragement you need to see a challenging case through.
A: The consequences of a gray divorce include the division of the marital estate, considerations of spousal support, and, ultimately, the end of the marriage. When couples end their marriage late in life, they are often faced with the challenging prospect of accounting for a large estate and numerous assets. Beyond financial and legal considerations, a gray divorce can be an emotionally challenging period.
A: Moving out is often considered a major mistake in a divorce because there is no legal requirement for either parent to move out of a home that is jointly owned by both spouses. When requested, a judge may consider ordering one party to move out. Moving out early or making other major decisions without first consulting an attorney could weaken your position in court.
A: The gray divorce process works similarly to other divorces. The main difference is that gray divorces often bring unique challenges. While younger couples may have concerns about child support and child custody, a gray divorce often focuses on dividing assets and determining whether spousal support is called for. Gray divorces can be every bit as emotional and contentious as a court case involving spouses in their 20s or 30s.
A: The decision of whether or not to go through a gray divorce is entirely up to you. Such decisions are deeply personal and can have serious implications for where you live and the resources you maintain moving forward.
For some spouses, the decision to dissolve their marriage can allow them to start a new chapter and explore new opportunities, even if they are only considering that step. Consulting with an attorney can help you understand how the process works.
Going through a divorce later in life can lead to unique challenges. By working with The Levoritz Law Firm, you can gain a strategic advantage that ensures the process is fair and protects your interests. Our team of seasoned litigators can manage the complexities of speaking before the judge at hearings and negotiating favorable terms for your final court order.
Trust our team to keep you updated on crucial matters throughout your case. Contact our office today to learn how we can provide you with the exceptional legal services your gray divorce deserves.

This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page was approved by Founding Partner, Yonatan Levoritz who has more than 20 years of legal experience as a divorce & family attorney.