Tennessee Alimony Attorneys

Alimony can be a highly contested issue in divorce. It can also be unpredictable, since unlike child support, there is no set formula to determine the amount of alimony or how long those payments should continue. Instead there are several factors the court may consider.

At Patton & Pittman, our lawyers represent our clients in all issues relating to divorce, including alimony. From our office in Clarksville, we represent clients in Middle Tennessee, including Army service members from Fort Campbell. We offer a free initial consultation to discuss your case.

Types of Alimony

There are two general categories of alimony in Tennessee: spousal support paid prior to divorce to help a financially dependent spouse pay bills while the divorce is in process; and support paid after divorce.

Spousal support paid after divorce may be one of four types:

• Transitional alimony, which is designed to help a spouse get back on his or her feet and become self-supporting after divorce. Rehabilitative alimony continues for a set period of time.
• Alimony in solido, which is a lump-sum payment (or series of payments) to make up for an imbalance in property division.
• Alimony in futuro, which is alimony one party pays to the other until the recipient spouse dies, remarries or has a live-in relationship.
• Rehabilitative Alimony, which is designed to provide some support to allow a spouse to complete training or education to help the spouse get back on his or her feet. Rehabilitative alimony continues for a set period of time.

Factors in Determining Alimony

The court may consider a number of factors in determining whether one spouse will be required to pay support to the other and the amount of that support. The two most important factors are:

· Does one party have a financial need

· Does the other have the ability to pay

Other factors the court may consider include the duration of the marriage, the ages of the party, the physical conditions of the parties and fault in breakup of the marriage. Since there is no clear-cut formula, the skill and experience of your attorney is important to present your case in the best light.

Contact Our Clarksville Spousal Support Lawyers

Call (931) 361-4477, or contact us online to arrange a free initial consultation with our Tennessee alimony lawyers.