Will I have to pay alimony?

Ending a marriage can cause financial difficulties for both parties. One big question for the spouse that has been the primary means of support is: Will I have to pay alimony? It is certainly a valid question for any person in Kentucky who is thinking about divorce.

Spousal support is kind of a tricky subject. Believe it or not, not every case awards it. So, you may not have to provide for your soon-to-be ex's needs. If you refuse support right off the bat and the case goes to court, a judge will look at a number of factors to determine if your spouse qualifies for support.

Factors

First, a judge will look at your marriage history. Information needed to determine alimony eligibility includes:

• Marriage length
• Marital standard of living

On top of this information, a judge will want to know some personal facts about each spouse. Some of these include:

• Age
• Education level
• Job history

All of this information, as well as a look into each spouse's current financial state and ability to provide for him- or herself, will help a judge determine if the requesting spouse has an economic need for support.

Alimony basics

If awarded, spousal support duration and amount will be different in every divorce case. As previously stated, some will not receive support at all. Others may receive temporary financial assistance, and then there are those who may achieve long-term support. In most cases, alimony orders tend to be temporary, given for just enough time for the receiving spouse to become financially independent.

What if I disagree or need a modification?

It is possible to fight alimony orders if you believe that there is reason for your ex to not receive payments. It is also possible to seek order modifications if you or your former spouse experience a change in financial status. Your legal counsel can review your case and help you file any necessary motions to seek an order change or cancellation.

Does this decision really have to go to a judge?

No. It is possible to settle spousal support issues out of court through private negotiations or mediation. It only has to go to court if you flat out refuse and your spouse is insistent on seeking alimony.

At the end of the day, it is understandable that you may not want to pay alimony. Sometimes, it may not be avoided, though. If you do end up having to pay, with the assistance of legal counsel, you can seek an alimony order that is fair for you as well as your soon-to-be ex.