Divorce tends to be an emotionally taxing process. It’s the untangling of two deeply integrated lives. This process is bound to have some long-term impacts. Research is rife with how divorce impacts the couples and their dependents – almost always resulting in a negative psychological turn. The various new considerations that can arise after divorce can act as their own stressor. Altogether, recovering from divorce is a challenge.
Why does Divorce have such a deep impact? Beyond the emotional side, this process is financially expensive. Specifically, one party may end up paying long-term spousal support, colloquially known as alimony. According to divorce and family law experts Turco Legal, P.C., alimony has long influenced the financial stability and lifestyle of a divorced partner for years to come. While this consideration is designed to support a lower-earning spouse, the burden must be handled by the ex-partner.
It is essential that a skilled family law attorney is involved in this process. This can help you navigate the various potential alimony baskets you may have to look into…
General Term Alimony
General Term Alimony is the most common type of spousal support awarded in Boston divorces. It is intended to provide ongoing financial assistance to a lower-earning spouse who needs support to maintain a lifestyle similar to that enjoyed during the marriage. The duration and amount of General Term Alimony are influenced by factors such as the length of the marriage, the financial needs and abilities of both parties, and the standard of living established during the marriage.
Massachusetts law sets specific guidelines for the duration of General Term Alimony, often tying it to the length of the marriage. For example, alimony for a marriage lasting less than five years is generally capped at half the length of the marriage, while longer marriages can result in longer alimony terms.
Rehabilitative Alimony
Rehabilitative Alimony is awarded when one spouse needs financial support for a limited period to become financially self-sufficient. This type of alimony is typically granted to a spouse who may need time to complete education, training, or re-enter the workforce. The goal is to provide temporary financial assistance while the recipient prepares for a more independent financial future. Rehabilitative alimony is often seen as a bridge to financial independence, with a clear end date tied to specific goals or milestones.
Reimbursement Alimony
Reimbursement Alimony is less common but serves a specific purpose in certain divorce cases. It is awarded when one spouse has made significant financial contributions to the other spouse’s education, training, or career advancement during the marriage. This type of alimony aims to compensate the contributing spouse for their investment, recognizing the financial sacrifices made to support the other’s career growth. In Boston, reimbursement alimony is typically granted in situations where the marriage was relatively short, and one spouse supported the other’s pursuit of education or professional development.
Transitional Alimony
Transitional Alimony is designed to help a lower-earning spouse adjust to a new lifestyle or location after the divorce. It is typically awarded for a short period, providing financial support during the transition to post-divorce life. This type of alimony is often granted in cases where the recipient needs time to settle into a new home, job, or community. Transitional alimony is usually limited to a maximum of three years and is not intended for long-term support.
Family law attorneys are well versed with such concerns. Most importantly, their legal mind-set allows a more long-term perspective to what feels like a short-term financial issue. By strategically navigating the issue of alimony, you can secure your financial future. Work with an expert, and take charge of your future today!