For some couples divorcing in Massachusetts, alimony seems like an outdated concept. However, in many cases, alimony is a necessary element of divorce. After all, few couples earn the same income. When a large enough disparity exists in the income between spouses, spousal support can reduce the gap and help the lesser earning spouse become financially secure.
In Massachusetts and many other states, there are several spousal support options a couple may choose from. It is a good idea to learn about them before you reach that stage of your divorce.
- Transitional alimony: As the name suggests, this type of support helps lesser earning spouses avoid financial hardships while transitioning from married life to single life. It helps newly divorced people establish financial security in the wake of divorce.
- Rehabilitative alimony: This form of alimony lasts a set amount of time and helps support ex-spouses who expect to begin supporting themselves at some point after the divorce.
- Reimbursement alimony: When one spouse sacrifices his or her career to help the other spouse, this type of support may be awarded as a means of compensation.
- General alimony: This is the form of alimony that most people know about. It has been available for decades and is most often awarded when one spouse is completely dependent upon the other spouse in terms of financial support.
Although a family court will likely have the final say on who gets alimony and the form it will take, it is wise to discuss the matter with a lawyer. Doing so gives your attorney the best chance of preparing an argument that can persuade a judge that your need for spousal support is undeniable.
