Alimony

The word "Alimony" may evoke images of Hollywood, but alimony is designed for everyday people, too. Divorcing spouses may not be on even ground when it comes to their income or the ability to make an income. The court will take into account several items before deciding on alimony. This will include each spouses ability to support themselves, any special needs, the length of the marriage, outstanding debts, and the standard of living for each spouse. The courts want to equitably distribute income between spouses when it affects quality of life.

The order to pay alimony is meant to help the spouse who is less likely to earn enough to get back on their feet. Most states allow for a reasonable time for alimony, anywhere from a few months to a few years. The court also may take into consideration cases where one spouse supported the other when, for instance, in medical school. Alimony is usually not considered a lifetime commitment. However, in instances such as extreme inequitable income due to age, disability, or other unusual circumstances, one spouse may require support for the rest of their life. Most alimony orders can be revisited as circumstances change. Most typically alimony ends when the receiving party remarries.

When a divorce is imminent, be aware that you may have some very painful issues to face; way beyond the division of property and assets. Along with your child's welfare, the courts will make sure that both parents can support themselves, and if not, that they are provided for. These topics often bring out the worst in people during a divorce. Try to resolve as many of these difficult issues before you get into the courtroom. When that's not possible, call in the professionals and resign yourself to the fact that you are legally bound to take care of your family, even after divorce.

Alimony was awarded in only about 10% (616 of 6,084) of divorces in Nebraska in 2009.

The order to pay alimony is meant to help the spouse who is less likely to earn enough to get back on their feet. Most states allow for a reasonable time for alimony, anywhere from a few months to a few years. The court also may take into consideration cases where one spouse supported the other when, for instance, in medical school. Alimony is usually not considered a lifetime commitment. However, in instances such as extreme inequitable income due to age, disability, or other unusual circumstances, one spouse may require support for the rest of their life. Most alimony orders can be revisited as circumstances change. Most typically alimony ends when the receiving party remarries.

When a divorce is imminent, be aware that you may have some very painful issues to face; way beyond the division of property and assets. Along with your child's welfare, the courts will make sure that both parents can support themselves, and if not, that they are provided for. These topics often bring out the worst in people during a divorce. Try to resolve as many of these difficult issues before you get into the courtroom. When that's not possible, call in the professionals and resign yourself to the fact that you are legally bound to take care of your family, even after divorce.