Asking for Alimony after Domestic Partnership Ends

Just as with a marriage, you can ask for maintenance when ending a domestic partnership. Depending on the state in which you file for maintenance and several other factors, a judge may grant your request for maintenance or deny it. One of the most important determining factors for awarding maintenance, or the awarding of financial assistance, is the length of the domestic partnership. The longer that you have been with your partner, the greater your chance for obtaining maintenance. Of course, your partner must have the financial ability to make the payments, meaning that he/she is likely to have a much greater income than you.

The judge will then consider the standard of living that you were accustomed to during the partnership. While it is unrealistic to think that you will be able to maintain the same standards after the partnership has ended, you should be granted enough maintenance to be comfortable on your own until you are able to support yourself financially. If you have questions related to domestic partnerships or alimony, it is advised that you consult a family lawyer in your area.