Navigating the waters of marriage can be a very difficult task at times. As years pass, relationships and people can change. Keeping this in mind, some people may come to the conclusion that their marriage is no longer working — even after spending decades together. In fact, a study conducted by Bowling Green State University revealed that divorce among people ages 50 and older is a growing national trend.
Better known for singing love songs in the 1970s, the Captain and Tennille have decided to follow suit with this particular divorce trend. The couple spent nearly 40 years together in marriage, but Toni Tennille filed for divorce from her long-time husband, legally named Daryl Dragon. A statement on the musical duo’s website indicated that their relationship had simply changed over the course of time and that divorce was the best option.
Of course, Tennille and Dragon have a lot to sort out in the coming months. Reports indicate that Dragon was taken off guard by the filing and he still lives in the same house as his soon-to-be ex-wife. Regardless, as the divorce proceedings move forward, the couple will have to separate the assets they’ve acquired over their lengthy career.
Any couple going through divorce after a lengthy marriage could deal with complex property division issues. In Oregon, which is considered an equitable division state, couples sort through the assets acquired prior to and during their marriage and ultimately split the marital assets according to what is considered fair.
The complexities associated with ending a long-term marriage may require the experience of a trusted family law attorney. By taking thoughtful steps throughout the process, couples can hope for a settlement that is truly equitable for both parties.
Source: The Washington Post, “Captain and Tennille, musical duo of the ’70s, divorcing after 39 years of marriage,” Diana Reese, Jan. 23, 2014