Alimony

Alimony Lawyer in Franklin, TN

Comprehensive Family Law Representation in Williamson & Davidson Counties

Alimony, also known as spousal support, is an issue that often arises in Tennessee divorce and legal separation cases. This financial obligation is not automatic in any divorce and must be requested by a spouse during the legal process. In many cases, it can become a contested matter.

McGill Law provides seasoned legal representation to those seeking or contesting alimony during divorce or separation. Our Franklin alimony attorney also represents individuals in post-divorce alimony matters, such as when a spouse seeks to modify or enforce payments through the courts. Ms. McGill handles such cases with the utmost attention to detail and careful consideration. Our mission is to help you secure a fair and just resolution.

Reserve a free initial consultation with our attorney by submitting our online contact form or calling (615) 398-6453.

Essential Information about Alimony in Tennessee

Alimony aims to protect the economic fairness of the lesser-earning spouse in a Tennessee divorce, allowing them to maintain a standard of living reasonably close to what they had during the marriage. The two most important factors in determining an aimony award are the economically disadvantaged spouse's need, and the payor's abilty to pay.

This financial obligation can be highly contentious because it directly impacts both parties' finances post-divorce. The party required to pay may feel the amount is too high or unnecessary, while the recipient might depend on this support to meet basic needs. The disparity in income and lifestyle expectations often makes the alimony negotiation a critical and contested part of divorce proceedings.

Types of Alimony in Tennessee

Tennessee alimony is not a one-size-fits-all concept; it varies significantly based on the couple's overall financial situation, the length of the marriage, and the disparity ofthe parties' incomes. The idea of alimony is based on one spouse’s need for financial assistance and the other’s ability to pay.

Courts can award several types of alimony, including:

Temporary alimony: Known as transitional alimony, this type of financial support occurs during the divorce proceedings to help the economicaly disadvantaged spouse manage living expenses.
Alimony in futuro: This is a more long-term form of alimony. It generally continues until the recipient remarries or either partner dies, though it can be terminated or modified up or down, depending on certain circumstances.
Rehabilitative alimony: This short-term obligation allows a spouse time to gain job skills and employment or complete the education or training necessary to become self-sufficient.
Alimony “in solido.” This is a guarenteed amount, paid in a lump-sum or in installments, which is not modifable and cannot be terminated.

Couples with a valid prenuptial or postnuptial agreement may have included the issue of alimony in their marital agreement; these agreements can specify whether alimony shall be paid, its amount, and duration.

Couples without the above agreements who wish to control the issue of alimony in a divorce can negotiate or mediate this issue outside of court. Once a settlement has been reached, it can be submitted to the court for approval.

Continue Reading Read Less

Why Choose McGill Law?

We've Helped Thousands of Families

Clear Direction & Strategy

From the first meeting to the last, you will have a personalized path forward, and we'll walk you through every step.
Aggressively On Your Side

Working with Michele McGill means compassionate, respectful, and fearless advocacy on your behalf.
Personally Invested in You

You're never just a number to us - we work closely with you to ensure that every decision is in your best interest.
Experienced Litigator

With thousands of clients served, we are well-prepared to fight for you in court if your case demands it.

How Long Does Alimony Last?

The duration of alimony varies widely and is often determined by the specifics of the marriage and divorce agreement. In Tennessee, the length of the marriage is a significant factor in deciding how long alimony payments continue.

For example, shorter marriages might result in temporary or short-term rehabilitative alimony that lasts only until the recipient spouse becomes financially independent. Courts might award long-term or permanent alimony for longer marriages, particularly those over 20 years.

Modification & Termination of Alimony

Tennessee alimony can be terminated or modified under certain conditions. If the receiving spouse remarries, it is common ground for terminating alimony payments. Additionally, if the court finds a significant change in circumstances, such as the financial status of either spouse, it might reconsider the alimony agreement.

The cohabitation of the receiving spouse with another partner may also lead to the termination or modification of alimony, as it indicates a shift in financial needs. Lastly, either party's death will automatically terminate alimony obligations, except in cases where the divorce decree stipulates explicitly otherwise, making provisions from the payor's estate to the recipient.

Let McGill Law Help You Navigate the Issue of Alimony

Courts review many factors when deciding on the issue of alimony. These factors can range from the length of the marriage to the financial resources of each party to each one’s contributions to the marriage or the time needed for the recipient to become financially self-sufficient.

Our Franklin alimony attorney can help you understand Tennessee law on this issue and how it relates to your circumstances, as well as provide a strategic approach tailored to your needs. We offer competent guidance and advocacy to seek fair and equitable results.

Book a complimentary consultation about your alimony case by contacting us online or at (615) 398-6453.

Continue Reading Read Less

McGill Law Contact Us Today

Get Started With A Consultation

First Name
Please enter your first name.
Last Name
Please enter your last name.
Phone
Please enter your phone number.

This isn't a valid phone number.
Email
Please enter your email address.

This isn't a valid email address.
Are you a new client?
Please make a selection.
How can we help you?
Please enter a message.
By submitting, you agree to be contacted about your request & other information using automated technology. Message frequency varies. Msg & data rates may apply. Text STOP to cancel. Acceptable Use Policy