Spousal support, also called alimony, concerns financial payments that a person provides to or receives from their former spouse. In North Carolina, either party to a divorce can request alimony, but readers should be aware that not all divorces involve it. When the parties to a divorce are financially able to provide for their own needs, alimony may not be necessary.
Alimony is generally dependent on need. If a party is substantially dependent on the income of their spouse to survive and is in substantial need of their support to maintain their lifestyle, then they may be entitled to alimony. The amount of alimony, and the duration that it will last, will depend on many factors.
What Determines The Amount And Duration Of Alimony Awarded?
Regarding the amount of alimony that a party may be awarded, a court will assess the total amount of income that the parties earned as a couple. If a party did not work when they were married, then their earning capacity may also be considered in the computation. The level of income that the parties generated will directly influence the amount of money that may make up an alimony award.
The duration of an alimony award can vary from short-term to permanent. The length of the parties’ marriage, their ages and health, and even instances of marital misconduct can all factor into how long an award of alimony will last. It is important that readers speak with their family law attorneys about these matters as this post offers no legal advice.
Alimony is an important part of many divorce negotiations and can make a big difference in how a person lives their life after their marriage has ended. Getting help from an attorney who understands the state’s family laws is important to ending a marriage on fair and equitable terms. Specific advice on divorce and alimony questions should be directed to lawyers who work in this field of law.