During a divorce, one of the most important considerations is whether one spouse will owe the other alimony. Alimony is a necessary financial support in many divorce cases, so understanding the different types and their requirements is crucial. For more information and skilled legal advice, work with an experienced Middlesex County alimony lawyer today.

What is Alimony?

Alimony is a type of financial support one spouse may be required to provide to the other during a separation or divorce. When two people are married, especially for many years, their finances generally mix together, and one spouse’s income may be shared by the other. However, this can lead to conflict if the marriage ends, as oftentimes one spouse made career or financial sacrifices for the other.

In cases like this, a court may award alimony, or spousal support. One spouse may make regular payments to the other to ensure the divorce does not have an unfair negative effect on their financial stability. There are different types of alimony designed to fulfill different purposes.

Are There Different Types of Alimony in MA?

Massachusetts courts recognize four different types of alimony that can be awarded during a separation or divorce. Consider the following.

  1. General term alimony: Financial support paid to an individual who is economically dependent on their former spouse
  2. Rehabilitative alimony: Financial support paid to an individual who is economically dependent on their former spouse but is expected to be able to support themselves by a certain time
  3. Reimbursement alimony: Financial support paid to an individual to pay them back for financial or other contributions made during the marriage
  4. Transitional alimony: Financial support paid to an individual to help them adjust to their new lifestyle and reality

Reimbursement and transitional alimony can only be granted in divorce cases where the marriage lasted 5 years or less. General and rehabilitative alimony can be awarded regardless of the length of the marriage.

How Long Does Alimony Last?

The amount of time that alimony lasts will vary depending on the details of the circumstances, the length of the marriage, and the type of alimony being considered. Transitional alimony can last up to 3 years, and rehabilitative alimony can last up to 5 years, while general and reimbursement alimony can be awarded for any amount of time.

The length of general alimony typically corresponds to the length of the marriage, as outlined below.

  • Marriages of 5 or fewer years: Support can be required for up to 50% of the length of the marriage
  • Marriages of 10 or fewer years: Support can be required for up to 60% of the length of the marriage
  • Marriages of 15 or fewer years: Support can be required for up to 70% of the length of the marriage
  • Marriages of 20 or fewer years: Support can be required for up to 80% of the length of the marriage
  • Marriages of more than 20 years: Support can be required for any amount of time deemed fair

If you have questions or concerns about spousal support during your divorce, contact a skilled attorney at Mark Liam Gannon, Attorney at Law.