Family Law

An Overview Of Tennessee Alimony (Spousal Support) Laws

What Is Alimony Or Spousal Support Called In Tennessee?

In Tennessee, we call this topic Alimony. Alimony is awarded in many different forms, based on a number of factors unique to each and every situation.

For example, consider the situation of a person who has been a stay-at-home mom for the last 15 years, has raised her children, and has no specific career skills because she only went to high school. If the dad has been the primary breadwinner, then that’s a basis for support – because she has a need and he has an ability to pay.

There are four different types of alimony in Tennessee:

• Alimony in Futuro, which would be alimony until the death of either party or until the spouse remarries.
• Lump sum alimony, called Alimony in Solido, is a one-time alimony payment, usually for people who have been married for a significant amount of time, like ten years or greater, and have assets.
• Rehabilitative alimony, which is more for people who have been married a shorter time. Perhaps the spouse had been in the workforce, has been out a few years, and needs perhaps assistance in reentering the workforce in the form of education for example.
• Transitional alimony is short-term alimony for people who are married for a short period of time and maybe one or the other spouse needs temporary help to get back on their feet.

How Is Alimony Awarded In Tennessee?

The amount of alimony that will be awarded is based on an income and needs statement. Therefore, the parties will itemize income and necessary payments. For example, mortgage, car, utilities, and insurance payments will be balanced against income. One party may have a negative balance while the other party has a positive balance. Alimony may be awarded under these circumstances. a

Is There Anything That Impacts The Amount Or The Longevity Of Alimony?

“Fault” is not determined in a divorce in Tennessee and generally not considered. For example, the court does not consider which party is at fault for the marriage’s failure in determining custody. However, extramarital affairs can be considered by the court in determining whether to award alimony and how much alimony to award.

For more information on Alimony Or Spousal Support Law in Tennessee, a free initial consultation is your next best step. Get the information and legal answers you are seeking by calling (931) 650-3322 today.