Alimony

The term 'alimony' is a support payment made from one ex-spouse to the other ex-spouse. The discussion of alimony happens only after provisions have been made for child support. Alimony is granted in a very small percentage of divorce cases.

There are many different aspects to determining the amount (if any) of alimony that will be paid to an ex-spouse. It used to be that fault (the particular role a parent played in the demise of the marriage) played a part in the decision to grant or limit alimony. That is not the case anymore in more than half of the states in the U. S. In certain situations alimony is provided for a specified amount of time to allow the custodial parent to stay at home to care for a very young child.

Permanent alimony is normally reserved for the elderly. It may also be granted to an unskilled spouse who is incapable of supporting his/herself. A wealthy spouse may also be granted permanent alimony so they may maintain the higher standard of living they are accustomed to. Permanent alimony may also be granted for marriages that lasted for a long period or duration.

Temporary alimony is normally granted to compensate a spouse who had supported the other spouse in the past while he/she started a new business or career.

Our attorneys at trusted.child.support.lawyers.info will be able to help you and your spouse decide if alimony payments are the best option in your current situation. The spouse's ability to pay, the length of time you were married, your earning potential, and the general health of both parties will need to be taken into account. Whatever the amount awarded, there will be tax advantages and disadvantages for either party. Our attorneys at trusted.child.support.lawyers.info possess the in-depth knowledge to help you both to decide whether or not alimony will benefit you in your current situation or in the future.