Temporary vs. Permanent Alimony

When a couple files for divorce, one of the major issues that must be decided is the issue of alimony. Also known as maintenance or spousal support, alimony is a payment that is made from one spouse to another. It is typically offered when there is a large income disparity between two individuals in a divorcing couple so that the person with the lower income can maintain his or her standard of living during and / or after divorce.

If you are considering or anticipating divorce, don’t enter into an alimony agreement without first consulting with an experienced divorce lawyer. Contact the Oceanside alimony agreement lawyers of Fischer & Van Thiel, LLP, today at 760-722-7646 to discuss your situation and legal options.

What is Temporary Alimony?

Temporary alimony is short-term financial assistance that is usually offered while a divorce is pending. When a couple chooses to separate before a divorce is finalized, they may form an alimony agreement that includes how much will be paid and when. If one spouse requests temporary alimony but the other refuses, the person seeking alimony can file a request with the court to receive a court order for alimony. If the court approves the request, the higher earning spouse is legally obligated to pay temporary alimony as specified in the court order.

What is Permanent Alimony?

Permanent alimony is a long-term form of alimony that is paid regularly in installments. The longer a marriage lasts, the more likely it is that alimony will be included in the divorce agreement. An ex-spouse may be required to pay spousal support for several years to cover the other ex-spouse’s essential living expenses, retirement, or education costs. The agreement can be modified if there are legal grounds to do so. For instance, if the ex-spouse receiving alimony decides to remarry or passes away, the alimony judgment may be terminated.

Contact Us

To learn more about alimony and how we can help you fight for the financial assistance that you need, contact the Oceanside alimony agreement attorneys of Fischer & Van Thiel, LLP, by calling 760-722-7646.