Court Ends Wife's Lifetime Alimony

A case heard before the Tennessee Supreme Court last week is certain to change the future of alimony cases not just in that state, but across the country.

Legal experts were eager to hear the outcome of the case of a woman who was currently receiving $15,000 per year in alimony. After hearing both sides of the argument, the Supreme Court ruled that the woman was not eligible for "alimony in futuro" or lifetime alimony. The justices stated in their opinion that a spouse that is in good health, can support himself/herself and has also fared well in the division of marital property is in no way eligible for lifetime support.

While the decision was met with mixed reviews, several family law attorneys were excited to hear the outcome. Many spoke about how the appeals court had ignored the traditional standard of ability and need when upholding the wife's lifetime alimony in the first place.

If you are hoping to obtain alimony, it is advised that you work with a family lawyer that can help you initiate the process while overseeing your best interests.