Understanding Alimony and Spousal Support

What is alimony?

This term refers to spousal support or maintenance in the form of payments that one spouse will receive upon the dissolution of the marriage. Depending on the situation, this money will be allotted for living expenses and/or child support. A judge will determine the length of payment time which could range from a few months to lifelong support. However, when either spouse passes away, the payments immediately stop. If the person receiving the payments remarries or moves in with someone new, the payments could also stop at that point, depending on the legal agreements made at the time of the divorce.

How is the amount of alimony payments determined? It depends upon your marital situation and the state in which you are asking for alimony. You can consult with a qualified family law attorney first to get his/her estimate for the amount of payment that you should demand. The attorney will look at factors such as your income, spouse's income and assets, age and health, if one spouse stayed home to raise the children, the length of the marriage, which spouse will have custody of the children is present, and the anticipated division of assets upon divorce.

Have questions about alimony?  It is advised that you consult with a family law attorney immediately.