Shelby County Alimony & Spousal Support Attorneys

Is Alimony Or Spousal Support Recognized In Alabama? How Is Alimony Calculated?

Receiving alimony or spousal support is up to the discretion of the judge. To obtain this type of support, you must demonstrate that you are entitled to it based on a variety of factors, which include:

• The earning ability of both parties;
• Fault in the divorce;
• Standard of living needs;
• Special expenses;
• Length of the marriage;
• And more…

How Long Will You Have To Pay Alimony Or Spousal Support In Alabama?

Several potential factors may cause these payments to cease. These factors can include whether your former spouse:

• Remarries;
• Passes Away;
• Co-habitates with another member of the opposite sex;

Additionally, there is rehabilitative alimony, which focuses on helping your spouse get back financially. Sometimes, the court crafts a “sunset payment system” that lasts over a certain period and ends after a specified timeframe.

What Does Equal Distribution Mean In Alabama Divorce Cases?

Equal distribution is what is determined to be fair under the circumstances of the divorce. The court takes into account the following:

• Length of the marriage;
• The parties’ earning ability;
• A spouse’s separate estate;
• And more…

Equitable distribution is what is considered fair under the circumstances taking into account the separate estate of the parties, the fault, the length of the marriage, conduct of the parties, earning ability, what the judge has awarded, and the other aspects of the marriage such as has the judge settled one spouse with the majority of the marital debt?

Is The Date Of Separation Important When It Comes To The Division Of Property And Assets In Alabama?

Whether or not the date of separation matters in your case depends on a number of factors unique to you. Ultimately, it is up to the discretion of the judge to determine equitable distribution. The further away you are from the date of separation versus the date of filing, the more critical it becomes. For more information on Family Law In Alabama, an initial consultation is your next best step.

When Can Alimony Or Spousal Support Awards Be Modified In Alabama?

Alimony or spousal support can be modified depending on the circumstances of the recipient of that support. For example, a modification may be granted if the recipient:

• Obtains a job that results in a higher income;
• Suffers an injury or a severe illness;
• Loses a job.

These material circumstances could affect the support. The type of change will dictate whether there should be an increase or decrease in the amount of support. For more information on Family Law In Alabama, an initial consultation is your next best step.