When a couple decides to get divorced, one of the most important decisions they will make is how to handle alimony payments. This can be a complicated process, and there are a few things you should know about alimony before you file for divorce.
What is alimony?
Alimony is a payment from one spouse to the other after a divorce. It’s intended to help the receiving spouse maintain their standard of living after the divorce. There are several types of alimony, and one of the most common is called “rehabilitative alimony.” This type of alimony is typically designed to help the receiving spouse financially before they are able to become self-sufficient.
Another common type of alimony is called “permanent alimony.” This type of alimony is typically paid until the death of either spouse or remarriage of the receiving spouse. Temporary, on the other hand, is a type of alimony that gets paid during the divorce process, and it ends when the divorce gets finalized.
How do the courts determine alimony payments?
The courts will typically look at a number of factors when determining alimony payments. Some of these factors include the length of the marriage, marital standard of living, the financial needs of the receiving spouse and the earning potential of both spouses.
The court may also consider whether either spouse contributed to the education or training of the other spouse. In some cases, the court may also consider whether one spouse stayed at home to care for the children while the other spouse worked.
If you are going through a divorce, it is important to understand how alimony works. It’s important to note, however, that there is no set formula for how alimony payments get determined. The courts will look at each case individually and make a decision based on what they believe is fair.