Alimony
Also referred to as Spousal Support, alimony can be awarded in divorce cases to the former spouse based on an agreement or based on the decision of the court. The reason that alimony exists is so that until the dependent spouse achieves financial independence, they are awarded a payment to supplement the lost income from the other spouse.
Here are some of the things that are taken into account when determining eligibility for alimony:
- Length of the marriage
- The ability of the paying spouse to support his or herself
- The mutual standard of living for both spouses during the marriage
- The time it would take for the recipient spouse to receive education in order to obtain a job that would allow them to be self-sufficient
- The age, physical and emotional condition, and financial state of the former spouses
The duration of alimony payment varies from couple to couple, but generally speaking, alimony is paid as long as is required for the recipient spouse to receive training so that they can work and become self sufficient.
The majority of alimony payments end when the recipient remarries. Unlike child support, alimony is hard to enforce because the same enforcement mechanisms are not in place. Let the alimony lawyers at Revelli & Revelli help guide you through the process of alimony; we will look out for your best interests and ensure that you are treated fairly. Call us or request a free consultation and we will be more than happy to help you.
Alimony FAQs
Is there more than one type of alimony?
Typically, alimony is paid to the recipient spouse on a monthly basis, meaning that they get a flat payment each month. While this is the usual arrangement for alimony, variations can be made.
What types of payments do not qualify as alimony?
Child support payments as well as any voluntary payments made to the recipient spouse do not count as a part of alimony. Payments that are required by the divorce in order to settle property are also not included within the scope of alimony.
