It would be convenient if there were a one-size-fits-all solution to divorce. If you would walk into a courtroom, tell a judge what you want, and get it, that would make so many lives so much easier. Unfortunately, although there are ways to make divorce simpler through mediation, there’s no way to make it completely free of complications or questions. And that includes when determining alimony. When you’re trying to figure out how much spousal support you’ll likely pay or be paid in a divorce, there isn’t a quick divorce calculator you can use. Alimony is based on several factors, and there are several types of alimony, as well. At Kallemeyn and Kallemeyn, our Coon Rapids, MN divorce lawyers are Minnesota spousal maintenance experts, and we can help you understand just what to expect during your divorce.
Understanding the Types of Spousal Maintenance
There are three types of spousal maintenance, all of which are used for different reasons based on the facts of a marriage. To understand what type you might receive or pay after your divorce, look at the differences between these three forms of alimony.
• Temporary Spousal Maintenance: Usually paid while a divorce is pending and is based on the income of each spouse. This is typically for spouses who will soon be financially independent but who may need assistance until the divorce is finalized.
• Short-Term Spousal Maintenance: Typically used to assist with job training or educational pursuits, short-term spousal maintenance is for those who are pursuing financial stability and will be able to achieve it after a predicted period of time.
• Long-Term Spousal Maintenance: If one party is unable to become self-supportive after a divorce, long-term alimony may be paid. This is often also done in marriages of greater length, when one spouse is unaccustomed to being financially independent or meeting the financial needs of their lifestyle.
Factors That Determine Spousal Maintenance
There are several factors used to determine the best alimony agreement in a divorce, and they all have to do with spouses’ life before, during and after a divorce. These factors include:
• Division of Property: If your property is divided so that one party receives the family home and another must find a new home, spousal maintenance may be used to ensure both parties are able to afford to support themselves.
• Independent Financial Resources of Both Parties: If one party is more financially stable than another, alimony may be paid to ensure both parties are successful after divorce.
• Time Needed for a Spouse to Find Employment
• Marital Standard of Living
Your standard of living prior to divorce will play a role in determining how much money you need to maintain that standard. These factors include:
• Length of Marriage: Lengthier marriages often lead to longer-term alimony.
• Age and Physical Capabilities of Both Parties
If one party is unable to work, they will likely be cared for, financially, by their former spouse.
To talk to a professional divorce attorney about typical Minnesota spousal maintenance, contact the Coon Rapids, Minnesota experts at Kallemeyn and Kallemeyn today at 763-427-5131, or email lisa@kallemeyn.com.
