The Gray Divorce Phenomenon in Colombia

Gray divorce refers to the dissolution of marriage among older couples after many years together. This phenomenon has increased worldwide, including in Colombia.

1. Evolution of Gray Divorce

• In the United States, divorces among people over 50 have doubled since the 1990s (Pew Research Center).
• In Colombia, official data are scarce, but experts report a significant rise in recent years.

2. Causes

2.1 Relationship Wear and Communication Breakdown

• Prolonged routines and loss of shared interests.
• Reduced dialogue and quality time together.

2.2 Infidelity

• Seeking “new passions” after decades of marriage.

2.3 Financial and Health Stress

• Debt, pension concerns, or chronic illnesses add strain.

3. Consequences

• Emotional: Pain from shared memories and social networks.
• Financial: Asset division, pensions, and debts.
• Personal: Opportunity for new beginnings but risk of isolation.

4. The Divorce Process in Colombia

4.1 Types

• Mutual consent divorce: Parties submit a joint agreement to a judge or notary.
• Contested divorce: A judge decides when parties cannot agree.

4.2 Legal Requirements

• Minimum two years’ separation (may vary by case).
• Required documents: ID card, marriage certificate, and asset inventory.

4.3 Cost and Duration

• Varies by attorney or firm.
• May extend if marital estate settlement is complex.

5. Marital Estate Settlement

• Identify and value assets and debts.
• Distribute them according to marital property regime.
• Not always required if no shared assets or if terms are agreed.

6. Legal Guidance

• A family lawyer advises on asset division, alimony, custody, and offers emotional support.
• Helps avoid common delays and errors.

7. Statistics and Trends

• ENDS (2015): Divorce among Colombians over 50 rose 72% between 2005–2015 (2.6% men, 2.1% women).
• IPF (2019): U.S. gray divorces doubled in recent decades.
• INEGI (2021): Mexican divorces over 60 increased 56% since 2010.

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References

ENDS. National Demographic and Health Survey, Colombia (2015)