1. Gather all financial documents, including retirement accounts, pensions, bank statements, and real estate records.

2. Create a full list of marital and separate assets, including cottages, vehicles, business interests, and inherited property.

3. Understand your retirement picture, including which accounts require a QDRO and how division will affect your timeline.

4. Review your Social Security eligibility, especially if your marriage lasted at least 10 years.

5. Evaluate your health insurance options, including COBRA, Marketplace plans, and Medicare timing.

6. Assess whether keeping the marital home or cottage is realistic based on taxes, maintenance, and long‑term affordability.

7. Update your estate plan, including wills, trusts, beneficiary designations, and powers of attorney.

8. Build a post‑divorce budget to understand income, expenses, and retirement needs.

9. Consider emotional and family dynamics, especially relationships with adult children and grandchildren.

10. Choose a Michigan divorce attorney who is also a certified mediator to help you avoid unnecessary litigation and protect your long‑term financial stability.

If you are preparing for a gray divorce in Michigan, Bergmans Law P.C. offers experienced legal representation and certified mediation to help you move forward with confidence and clarity. Call Bergmans Law P.C. at (810) 360‑0900 to schedule your consultation.