Managing divorce can have a financial impact on both parties. However, it can be especially challenging if you are the party who does not draw an income or, earns significantly less than your soon to be ex. It can take some time to get back on your feet again, which is why you may want to consider temporary alimony during the divorce process. Working with a family lawyer who can support you through this process can help you to understand alimony, request support and help you reach a resolution to your divorce.
Understanding Temporary Alimony
When you and your spouse reach the decision to file for divorce, there can be a period of time where each party must adjust to the financial changes they are likely to experience. Much of the time, you will no longer have someone in your life to share expenses with. Temporary alimony has the ability to help the lesser earning spouse while they adjust to their new normal. Temporary alimony can be paid out from one party to another for a limited period of time. Often this is until the divorce is finalized, but may continue for a short period after. This can help the person obtaining support have financial stability while they seek employment opportunities and financial stability. Temporary support can help to pay for expenses that include:
- Mortgage Payments
- Car Payments
- Utilities
- Miscellaneous Expenses
Divorce can be stressful, especially if you are financially dependant upon the other party. There can be a lot riding on your request for temporary alimony, especially if you stay at home or earn less income than your soon to be ex. To discuss details specific to your case, contact an alimony lawyer in your area as soon as possible.
Requesting Temporary Alimony
Once you have filed divorce, you can request temporary alimony for the duration of the divorce process. Your lawyer can help you to request temporary alimony from the courts. This request should include expenses you would like your spouse to continue covering. This will encompass the specified amount of money that you are looking to receive each month. Your lawyer will file a motion with the court requesting temporary alimony. Information contained within the request should have specifics pertaining to the income, assets and expenses of each spouse. The court will hear this request after reviewing paperwork in a hearing. Based on the information that is provided, the judge will make a decision. If the judge approves of your request, they will set a monthly payment. Once granted, this will become an official court order requiring your spouse to pay a specified amount.
Finalizing the Divorce Process
In many cases, temporary alimony is intended to continue until the conclusion of the divorce. Much of the time, divorces reach a resolution on an average of 6 months. However, it’s important to be aware that contentious, disputed divorces may take longer. Depending upon your specific situation, you may be able to obtain spousal support or alimony for longer. Your lawyer will be able to help you by reviewing your situation and helping you to pursue this process if necessary.
For more information about divorce and temporary alimony specifically, contact a lawyer with experience in this area of practice.
