Do I need a specific type of attorney for a gray divorce?

When couples who have been married for many years decide to separate, this scenario is often referred to as a “gray divorce.” While any divorce can be emotionally and financially demanding, gray divorces bring unique considerations: later-life retirement assets, adult children, health concerns, long-term spousal support issues, and a greater complexity of assets accumulated over decades. In the Commonwealth of Virginia, these factors demand careful legal guidance.

What makes a “gray divorce” different in Virginia?

In Virginia, the divorce process may look similar on the surface, whether you’ve been married five years or fifty, but the stakes are higher for long-term marriages. Couples may have built up substantial retirement accounts, pensions, deferred compensation, real estate holdings, business interests, and significant savings. Dividing those assets, particularly retirement and deferred compensation, can require specialized expertise. Additionally, spousal support questions may be complicated by later-life income, health insurance, anticipated medical expenses, and the prospect of decades of support rather than a fixed short-term period.

Why do you need an attorney with experience in “gray divorce”

Not every family law attorney has deep experience with the unique complexities of a long-term marriage divorce. You want legal counsel who understands:

• The valuation and division of retirement assets (e.g., pensions, 401(k)s, IRAs) and deferred compensation plans.
• How business interests or professional practices factor into the marital estate.
• Spousal support (alimony) issues arise when one spouse may retire, reduce work, or have health concerns.
• Tax implications of asset distributions, especially for older clients.
• Negotiation strategies or litigation options for complex asset portfolios.
• The emotional and strategic aspects of separating after decades together—especially when adult children or blended families are involved.

At CSAD, our family law practice focuses on “gray divorce.” Culin, Sharp, Autry & Day P.L.C. We combine years of experience in both divorce litigation and mediation, tailored to high-asset, long-marriage cases, alongside our broader expertise in business, asset distribution, and financial matters.

How to choose the right attorney for your case in Virginia

When evaluating legal counsel for a gray divorce, consider:

• Does the attorney have a track record in long-marriage divorces with significant assets and retirement issues?
• Can they clearly explain how the valuation and distribution of complex assets work in Virginia?
• Do they collaborate with financial experts, accountants, or retirement-plan specialists when needed?
• Are they comfortable working both in negotiation (mediation) and the courtroom if litigation becomes necessary?
• Will they treat the divorce as more than a simple split, but as a long-term financial and life transition needing strategic planning?

By choosing an attorney who checks these boxes, you’re positioning yourself for better outcomes and peace of mind through what can be one of the most significant transitions of your life.

Taking the next step: contact us today

If you or your spouse is considering separation after a long marriage and wants to ensure your interests and future are properly protected, contact our team at Culin, Sharp, Autry & Day. We are well-versed in gray-divorce issues in Virginia and ready to guide you through every step of the process.

Call us today at (703) 934-2940 or visit our website to schedule your consultation. Let us help you move forward with clarity, confidence, and a legal strategy tailored to your unique situation.