You know that your divorce will have significant impacts on your life. You will have to make financial adjustments, especially if you earn less than your spouse and enjoy a certain lifestyle. However, it is possible you could be eligible for specific types of financial support that can help you make post-divorce adjustments. Alimony, also called spousal support, is to help offset the economic inequity brought about by the end of a marriage.
Not everyone who goes through a divorce will be able to get this type of support. Before you agree to the terms of a financial settlement, you will find it beneficial to make sure your agreement will allow you security and stability for years to come. You have the right to pursue what you believe you are entitled to in your divorce, even if that means going to court.
The purpose of alimony
Spousal support is for those who may experience difficulty after a divorce because of changed financial circumstances. You could have a rightful claim to these benefits if you earned significantly less than your spouse during your marriage. Perhaps you gave up your career in order to raise your children, or maybe you worked part time while your spouse worked full time. There are many different circumstances that could make you eligible for these types of benefits.
How long and how much?
Every situation is different. The amount of spousal support you could get depends on your individual financial circumstances, including what you earn, what your spouse earns, your future earning capacity and more. It may come down to what your spouse can reasonably pay while still meeting other financial responsibilities.
Spousal support payments can be permanent or temporary. Short-term benefits are usually for former spouses who will need help reentering the workforce, going back to school or finding higher-earning employment. The length of the marriage and how long one spouse has been out of the workforce may factor into this determination.
Getting what you deserve
If you think you could be eligible for spousal support benefits, you will find it beneficial to seek the guidance and support of an experienced Colorado family law attorney. Whether it is in the courtroom or at the negotiating table, it is prudent to have someone on your side who can help you pursue the post-divorce future you deserve.