When couples are going through a divorce, they do so with the intent of separating their lives from one another. However, it may not always be possible for all couples to have a clean break. In many cases, there may only be one income in a household. This can leave the spouse without an income in an unfair financial situation after a divorce. It is because of this that one spouse may be required to pay court-ordered financial support to their former spouse. This is referred to as alimony. If you want to receive alimony, it is important to retain the services of an experienced New York divorce attorney for help fighting for it during the divorce proceedings.
What are Different Types of Alimony?
There are different types of alimony that can be awarded in New York depending on the situation of the couple. This can include the following:
- Permanent alimony: This remains in effect indefinitely or until there is a change in a former spouse’s circumstances. This can include cohabitation or remarriage. It can be awarded based on the duration of the marriage. If the marriage lasts up to 15 years, alimony can be awarded for 15 to 30% of the duration. If it lasts between 16 and 20 years, the payments may be between 30 to 50% of the duration. Marriages that last 20 years or more can see between 35 to 50% of the duration.
- Rehabilitative alimony: This may be awarded when a spouse holds off their own career to support their partner so that the dependent spouse can receive the education or training they need to get back into their field.
- Reimbursement alimony: This can reimburse a spouse if they financially support their partner while they are pursuing education or training.
What Should I Provide my Attorney if I Want Alimony?
When a spouse wishes to receive alimony after their divorce, it is important that they speak with an attorney to determine if they are eligible for it. If an attorney advises that they are a candidate, it can be beneficial to provide them with the following documentation:
- A history of the interruptions in education or career to benefit the spouse
- A history of the interruptions in education or career to raise children
- Full educational background
- Work history, including the names of employers, dates of employment, duties, pay, and why they left
- Any pensions or other benefits lost due to the interruption of career to benefit the marriage
- Health history
- Monthly living expenses as well as anticipated future expenses
- A list of the debts for both spouses
- The income of both spouses
Contact our Firm
Zimmet Law Group, P.C. is an experienced team of attorneys guiding clients through matters of estate planning and administration, divorce and family law, real estate, commercial litigation, business law, bankruptcy, and landlord-tenant law. If you require the services of an effective New York City attorney, contact our firm today to schedule a consultation.
