After couples get divorced, some spouses may have to pay alimony. This is put in place to support a dependent spouse. They may not be able to support themselves financially due to the nature of their previous arrangement in marriage. Although alimony can be set due to the differences of each case, mostly depending on the duration of the marriage, there is room for adjustments later on. Alimony can stop when death has occurred, remarriage or cohabitation of the dependent spouse happens or if the paying party reaches full retirement age. The full retirement age will be reviewed by the court to ensure it is a just decision.
A judge may also consider the extension of alimony due to the consideration of certain factors. This could be due to significant changes in circumstances or that evidence for an extension has become quite clear. Dealing with alimony can be difficult and complex since it has the possibility to change. In order to make sure you are not being cheated or paying too much, contact a professional attorney for legal representation.
What is expected for each alimony option?
Each case is handled differently regarding alimony cases. However, there are certain guidelines that a judge considers when making decisions. There are a few types of alimony payment plans that help to set a structure.
General term alimony is a regular payment from one spouse to another for a determined period of time. For this method, the length of the marriage decides the amount of support that is obligated. Due to the wide range of marriages that this type covers, it really depends on the individual case to decide the amount of payment. Rehabilitative alimony is another method that includes a regular payment for a short period of time to help the dependent party become financially stable.
Reimbursement alimony is a form of support that can be paid regularly or as a one-time payment after a marriage. This method is made to reimburse one party for the cost of supporting the other while he or she pursued education or job training. Transitional alimony helps a person settle into their new life. With this form of alimony, it can be paid as a lump sum or regular payments. This method is for marriages that lasted less than five years.
If you require compassionate and knowledgeable legal guidance for a matter of divorce, family or estate law, please contact the experienced attorneys at the Law Offices of Cynthia L. Hanley today. Our firm proudly serves clients in Mansfield, Massachusetts and throughout Bristol County.
