Is There Lifetime Alimony in Tennessee?

The main purpose of alimony in Tennessee is to provide maintenance to a divorcing spouse who would otherwise suffer an economic hardship during – or after – the divorce proceeding. The length and amount of alimony to be paid to the dependent spouse depends upon a variety of factors. One of the most important factors is the non-dependent spouse’s financial ability to pay alimony to the dependent spouse.

If the divorcing spouses cannot agree on the type and/or the amount of alimony to be paid to the dependent spouse, a family court judge in Tennessee will typically make the final decision. Depending upon the circumstances, alimony payments to a spouse could last for a period of months or years. In some instances, the alimony could even last for the remainder of the dependent spouse’s life.

If you are a dependent spouse who is contemplating divorce, you might be entitled to receive alimony payments. The Murfreesboro divorce lawyers at Dotson & Taylor can determine your eligibility for alimony and will do everything possible to pursue a favorable result on your behalf. Please give us a call today to find out more about how we could assist you with your Tennessee alimony needs.

Types of Alimony that are Available to a Dependent Spouse in Tennessee

In the State of Tennessee, either spouse has a legal right to petition the court for support and maintenance payments in the form of alimony. Tennessee recognizes four different types of alimony. Those types include “alimony in solido” (alimony that comes in a lump sum), periodic alimony, rehabilitative alimony, and transitional alimony.

Factors Courts Look to When Determining the Length and Amount of Alimony to be Paid a Dependent Spouse

When it comes to determining the length and amount of alimony to be paid to a dependent spouse, Tennessee courts will often look to various factors. Those factors include the assets that are available to each spouse, marital property and debts which the spouses may hold, the physical health of the spouses, the mental health and ages of the spouses, the length of the marriage, each spouse’s level of education and training, and the income earning capacity of each spouse.

In some instances – especially where the spouses come from varying economic or educational backgrounds – the dependent spouse might be entitled to receive alimony for a lengthy period of time. In other cases, the dependent spouse might only be eligible to receive alimony until such time as the spouse can “get back on his or her feet,” after which time the alimony payments will cease.

Speak with a Knowledgeable Murfreesboro Divorce Lawyer Today

The experienced legal team at Dotson & Taylor could assist you with pursuing the type and amount of alimony to which you are entitled. To schedule a free case evaluation and legal consultation with a Murfreesboro divorce attorney, please call us at (615) 890-1982 or contact us online today to find out more about how we could assist you with your family law matter.