Alimony, which is more commonly referred to as spousal support in legal terms, is a situation in which one spouse pays another spouse support after a divorce is final. There are many reasons that the courts can order alimony but one thing is always true: It is designed to support the receiving spouse, not the children. That is covered by child support.
According to California law there is just one type of alimony but there are many factors that are considered to decide if it should be given. As a result, though they are not named, there end up being specific types of alimony that are awarded. If you feel that you are entitled to alimony, or if you are being asked to pay it and do not find it fair, the new highly encourage you to contact Law Offices of Torrence L. Howell at (909) 920-0908 for a legal consultation.
Temporary alimony
Temporary alimony refers to alimony that is awarded before the divorce is final but after the couple has legally separated. It is not meant to continue for a long period but is rather there to ensure that the receiving spouse can pay for an attorney, housing, and other expenses as the divorced is finalized. Temporary alimony may also refer to alimony given for a short time after the divorce is finalized to give the spouse an influx of funds for things like a security deposit and moving costs.
Rehabilitative alimony
If one spouse is given rehabilitative alimony, then it is intended to help them get the skills or education they need to support themselves. This is often given when one parent was a stay at home parent and after years of marriage must get a job with little to no job experience. Rehabilitative alimony can pay for the costs of schooling, training, or certification, as well as living expenses while said rehabilitative actions are being taken.
Permanent alimony
In some cases, the court may order permanent alimony. This is most commonly the case in instances where one spouse needs ongoing medical care because they are disabled, ill, or older. Despite the name, it is not actually permanent. Instead, a person can go to the courts and file to have it modified at a later date. If the receiving spouse remarries, then permanent alimony will almost always stop.
Lump-sum alimony
It’s common for alimony to be paid on an ongoing basis but it is not the only option. When a person needs a sum of money right away but does not need ongoing help then a lump-sum amount may be given. It could be used to buy a house, pay off student loans, or other one-time expenses.
Which of these alimony options fits best for your divorce? Should you be paying alimony? Should you be receiving alimony? These answers can only be found when an attorney looks at your specific situation. Contact Law Offices of Torrence L. Howell at (909) 920-0908 to get started.
