Westwood Alimony Lawyer

Westwood Alimony Attorney

Alimony is often addressed during a divorce. The Massachusetts Alimony Reform Act breaks alimony into various types. If you are seeking alimony or want to fight it, a Westwood alimony lawyer can explain how the laws work and how you can achieve your goals in court. Our law firm focuses on family court cases tied to divorces, so we can provide you with the answers you need to move forward with confidence.

Why Choose Farias Family Law?

A family law case can shape the course of your future. Considering how consequential these cases can be, you should consider working with a firm that understands your goals and helps you achieve them in court. The attorneys at Farias Family Law understand how important your case is to you, and we believe in delivering exceptional results.

Our firm focuses on divorce cases and protecting the rights and interests of our clients. From the moment you secure representation from our family law firm, you gain a trusted ally who understands that every case is unique and requires a customized and strategic approach. Whether you are seeking a favorable outcome to your alimony case or another area of family law, we’re here to guide you and provide knowledgeable legal counsel.

What Factors Do the Courts Consider When Setting Alimony?

While no two alimony cases in Massachusetts are the same, the state does follow the same guidelines when setting spousal support payments. The length of the marriage is one key consideration that the courts will take under advisement when deciding whether or not to set alimony. The age of the parties is another consideration.

Other factors could include:

• Income of both parties
• Employment status
• Economic contributions of both spouses
• Both parties’ ability to maintain their previous lifestyle

Not all divorces will result in an order for one party to pay alimony, but it is important for anyone going through a divorce to understand the factors that the courts may use when considering whether or not to set alimony.

Alimony Options in Massachusetts

There are four basic types of alimony in Westwood, Massachusetts. Rehabilitative alimony may be ordered when one spouse is expecting to become self-sufficient within a certain time. This is usually due to ongoing job training or their effort to rejoin the workforce.

Reimbursement alimony is used to provide financial resources for spouses who contributed to their partner’s education. One example would be someone who worked and covered their spouse’s expenses as they went through nursing school. After a divorce, the nurse may be ordered to pay reimbursement alimony.

Transitional alimony helped the other former spouse transition and adjust to their new location or lifestyle. General term alimony is used for economically dependent spouses. The duration of alimony is based on the number of months that the couple was married.

Modifying Alimony Orders

When there are changes in the living situation and financial circumstances of one or both parties, modifying alimony orders may be an appropriate step. To manage the transition and prevent overwhelming the court system, the law includes a phased eligibility schedule based on the length of the marriage.

Those from shorter marriages can petition for modifications sooner, while individuals from longer marriages must wait longer before filing. This structure not only ensures a smoother legal process but also allows the receiving spouse additional time to adjust to potential financial changes.

FAQs

Q: What Is the Average Alimony Payment in Massachusetts?

A: There is no average alimony payment in Massachusetts because each alimony case is unique. The courts consider factors such as how long the marriage lasted and the economic status of both spouses. Not every divorce will result in alimony, but there are many cases where temporary support is called for. Having legal representation can help you get your legal arguments across in court.

Q: What Qualifies You for Alimony in Massachusetts?

A: What qualifies you for alimony in Massachusetts is financial need. The courts have an interest in preventing undue financial hardships for either spouse during a divorce. If you are seeking alimony, you can hire an attorney to argue before a court that you would incur significant financial hardships if you do not have support from your soon-to-be ex.

Q: What Is the New Alimony Law in Massachusetts?

A: The duration of alimony in Massachusetts is based on the length of the marriage and the type of alimony awarded. The state follows guidelines that set limits on how long payments last, with longer marriages typically allowing for extended support. Judges may also consider unique circumstances when determining the final duration.

Q: Does Cheating Affect Alimony in Massachusetts?

A: Marital misconduct does not typically affect how alimony is awarded in Massachusetts. The courts focus on financial factors, such as each spouse’s income and ability to support themselves after a divorce. If the spouse misused marital assets during an affair, it could have implications for how the marital estate is divided.

Q: Can Alimony Be Modified Later on?

A: Yes, court orders like alimony can be modified, but the person seeking the modification must show that there has been a significant change to one or both party’s living situation or earning ability.

The courts give preference to hearings on these matters when the couple was not married for a significantly longer period. Divorces from longer marriages may have to wait longer. An attorney can explain the modification process in detail.

Schedule Your Alimony Consultation Today

During any divorce, it is important that critical matters like child support and alimony be set fairly and based on evidence. If your divorce involves setting alimony payments, Farias Family Law is here to help. We can provide you with the answers and guidance you need to make important decisions with confidence.

If you are seeking alimony, we can take steps to ensure that you make a strong case that is backed by evidence and compelling legal arguments. If you are fighting alimony, we can help you there as well by arguing that your marriage does not qualify for alimony payments. To schedule your consultation, contact our office today.