When couples divorce, they divide property, money, and retirement accounts. In addition, they must compare income and may need to arrange for financial support of the other spouse. Called alimony or maintenance, this support prevents one spouse from being unfairly financially affected by the divorce. Divorcing spouses who think they are entitled to alimony should consult with divorce lawyers to learn how to proceed. Speaking to one of our local divorce attorneys for the free attorney advice you deserve is your first step to finding out if you should get alimony!
Who Gets Alimony When I Divorce?
Though it is sometimes paid as a lump sum, alimony usually takes the form of a monthly payment. It is handed down as a court decision or arranged by the spouses and included in the divorce settlement agreement. Not all divorcing spouses are entitled to alimony, only those who are unable to meet reasonable needs without receiving some financial assistance that their former spouses can provide.
This assistance may be temporary, lasting only until the individual can improve skills or get the necessary education to secure a job. It may last until the children are no longer minors, providing enough money for the spouse to live comfortably during the childrearing years. Or, it may be permanent because the age or health status of the spouse will never allow the individual to be self-supporting.
How Do I Get Alimony When I Divorce?
Since it can be difficult to get alimony in divorce, help from a local divorce attorney is recommended. It is best to include alimony arrangements in the divorce settlement, though these may be altered in the future due to changed financial status of one or both parents. Alimony allows a spouse who has relied upon the income of the partner to receive financial assistance from the moment the divorce concludes until it is no longer needed.
State laws dictate the divorce process and cover alimony arrangements. It can be difficult to understand these regulations because they include complex calculations and legal jargon. Even if a court is making an alimony decision, having legal assistance can be helpful. An attorney will ensure that the client understands the language and that all calculations are correct so no one is taken advantage of during the process.
Get Help With Your Alimony Questions
Alimony and divorce are two things that most people would prefer to never deal with during a lifetime. However, many married couples find themselves discussing both at some point. Having a legal professional on their side to help them get alimony in divorce can make life much easier for spouses who need financial help for at least some portion of their new, single lives.
