Tennessee Alimony Law
Alimony, or spousal support, is sometimes necessary, but is not always awarded. However, it is awarded when one spouse would struggle to make ends meet and other has the ability to pay. Courts have latitude and take in to consideration many factors when determining whether when it applies, how much and for how long.
Memphis divorce lawyer Misty D. Becker can explain to you these factors that are considered in determining alimony, and how they would be applied to your case and the likelihood of alimony being granted in your case based upon her experience before the Courts of Shelby and the surrounding Counties. Call her today at 901.881.8716 for a discreet consultation about all aspects of divorce. She represents men and women in the Memphis and Shelby County areas as well as the Fayette and Tipton County areas.
About Alimony in Tennessee
Typically, marital assets are split equitably in divorce. The purpose of alimony is to assist in the seperation of the assets or to help better equalize the income of each party so that the standard of living after divorce is not lopsided or disparate. There are four main types of alimony in a nutshell:
- In solido — A one-time lump sum payment, such as a split from proceeds from sale of the marital home or a 401(k)
- In futuro — Monthly payments until death or remarriage, most common in long-term marriages in which one spouse has limited ability to earn a living (for example, a wife who stayed home to raise children and will not be able to gain employment in the future)
- Rehabilitative — Temporary alimony while the spouse returns to school or otherwise increases earning power
- Transitional — Short-term alimony while one party gets back on his or her feet (a professional with high earning capacity who just needs to get settled in in his or her new lifestyle)
Alimony can be negotiated as part of the divorce agreement, or determined by the Court. Ms. Becker ensures that your best interests are protected. If you are to be receiving alimony, will the amount and duration meet your needs? If you will be paying, do you have the means to provide support and are there other factors that can limit what is paid? Where the answer is probably, yes. Ms. Becker can help you fight or negotiate your position appropriately.
We can also represent you in alimony modification proceedings — increasing alimony based on an ex-spouse's higher earnings, or a payer seeking to reduce or end alimony because the recipient is remarried or self-sufficient or a modification because the payor has retired and/or is unable to pay due to other circumstances.
Contact our Memphis office to arrange an initial consultation.
