“Divorce is expensive. I used to joke they were going to
call it ‘all the money,’ but they changed it to ‘alimony.’
It’s ripping your heart out through your wallet.”
Robin Williams
Court Ordered Spousal Support
Often a court ordered spousal support states finances to be paid all at once. This is called “lump-sum” spousal support, though; sometimes the order communicates the spousal support to be paid over time, in monthly or yearly payments. This is called “periodic” spousal support.
Periodic spousal support can be permanent or temporary. Temporary spousal support is often set up to give one party the chance to get a degree or gain job skills. While it can last for a specific number of months or years, often it ends upon a certain event, such as:
- The death of either spouse;
- The remarriage of the spouse getting the spousal support;
- When a specific amount of support has been paid.
A court is more likely to award permanent alimony in long-term marriages. Especially if the spouse receiving the support:
- Is sixty years or older;
- Has little education or work experience;
- Has little or no income.
Additionally, if spousal support is called “permanent support”, the payments may end at retirement when the parties start sharing in pension or retirement benefits.
Change in Spousal Support
The court will normally only change spousal support when there are new facts for the court to consider or when one spouse’s circumstances have changed. Either spouse can ask for a change in spousal support unless the parties agreed in their Judgment of Divorce not to allow changes.
We Won’t Waste Your Time
What the above communicates is the complexities associated with divorce proceedings, judgments of divorce and spousal support. With laws associated with divorce constantly changing, you need an attorney with the experience and knowledge to help you navigate this difficult time. You need someone fighting for your rights.
Attorney Ronald L. Kossack has represented over 2,000 clients and has served as the lead attorney on more than 850 trials and hearings. Mr. Kossack is a master litigator who has a strong presence in the courtroom. He will fight to protect your rights in a court of law, if necessary. To schedule a free initial consultation contact us online or by calling 480-345-2652.