Are You Eligible for Alimony?
Statistics show that the average divorcee needs a 30% income boost just to maintain the same standard of living enjoyed before the divorce. Many people depend on their spouses, which can make it difficult to survive without their income. Fortunately, alimony can be awarded to the dependent party to ensure they can live independently.
You Make Less Than Your Former Spouse
If you want to be granted spousal support, then you’ll need to prove that you make significantly less money than your former partner. The judge won’t see your need for alimony if you make the same amount of money or more than your ex. If you’re seeking support, be prepared to provide pay stubs and tax forms in court to show proof of your earnings.
Keep in mind that spousal support is not guaranteed and that each case and judge is different. Spousal support is awarded on a case-by-case basis. The different factors of your situation will determine if a court decides that you’re eligible for the funds and how long the duration of the payments will be over time.
Spousal Support Is Included in the Prenuptial Agreement
You’ll be entitled to alimony if the details of spousal support were included in the prenuptial agreement that was created before the wedding. Most times, it can be a smooth and easy process of being awarded financial support if you and your former spouse agreed to it before the marriage.
All spousal support orders that are issued by the court are final and are strictly enforced by the law. You may receive a lump sum of the alimony from your partner or obtain the money in payments over time. The support may be discontinued if you choose to remarry or move in with a new person in the future. The terms may also be modified if the person who is providing alimony experiences financial hardship, which can cause it to be terminated.
You Care for Your Children
Many spouses leave the workforce to take care of their children. This is a sufficient reason for obtaining spousal support after the marriage has ended. If you’re providing full-time care to small children in the home, it’s difficult to work and earn a significant income. In many cases, the courts will award alimony to the party that stays at home with the kids. If you were already caring for the children before going through the divorce, then it will be easier to prove that you deserve alimony.
You Suffer From Health Issues
If you suffer from health issues or a medical condition that affects your ability to work and earn a living, then you’re probably eligible for spousal support. You’ll need to show your medical bills and expenses to the judge to prove that you’re financially dependent on the other individual. Depending on your situation and physical condition, you’ll be awarded support for a limited time from one to 10 years. Those who have ongoing medical issues may be eligible for permanent spousal support.
You’re a Victim of Abuse
Those who have suffered from emotional or physical harm in a marriage often lose out on education or work opportunities. In many cases, the negative effects of abuse create a wall that prohibits personal fulfillment. That’s why abuse victims are often eligible for alimony. If the actions of your former partner have limited your opportunities, then you can seek financial support with the help of a legal representative. You’ll need to have proof of the abuse, including times and details of when it occurred, to increase the odds of being awarded spousal support.
Get Help During the Divorce Process
Contact Morgenstern & Rochester in Cherry Hill at (856) 489-6200 to find out if you’re eligible for alimony. With the help of a family law attorney, you can learn more about your rights and increase your chances of obtaining spousal support. Our law firm can help you move forward with your case.