Chattanooga Spousal Support Lawyer

In Tennessee, spousal support (or alimony) is not awarded automatically as it was even 10 or 15 years ago. In the past, it was understood that the major wage earner in a marriage would pay a monthly amount to his or her former spouse following a divorce, sometimes in perpetuity.

Now, however, whether or not a person receives spousal support is based on a number of factors. It requires only one spouse’s need for it and the other’s ability to pay. Other factors that are considered include:

• The length of the marriage
• Each individual’s relative earning capacity, needs and obligations
• Education and ability of each party, as well as the opportunities for additional education
• The standard of living the parties enjoyed during the marriage
• The tangible and intangible contributions of a spouse who remained at home to raise children and maintain the house
• How the marital property is divided

Alimony is not about revenge, nor is it intended to be a punishment for any real or perceived wrongs that occurred between two spouses during a marriage.

At the Law Office of Sam Byrd in Chattanooga, Tennessee, I represent individuals who seek spousal support, as well as those who may be required to pay it. As your lawyer, I will advocate for you during negotiations and in court, if necessary.

A Hamilton County Alimony Attorney Who Protects Your Rights

Tennessee courts can award any of four basic types of alimony:

• Transitional alimony is awarded for a period that is long enough for the receiving spouse to transition to living on a separate income (usually less than two years). The support provides funds to help him or her set up a new household, pay for health insurance and replace marital assets.
• Rehabilitative alimony is awarded to allow the receiving spouse to obtain additional job and career skills and/or education in order to obtain a lifestyle similar to that during the marriage.
• Alimony in solido compensates one spouse for the other spouse receiving a larger portion of the marital property such as business assets that are part of marital property. It can be paid in one lump-sum or separated into periodic payments.
• Alimony in futuro is the traditional alimony in which one spouse receives a certain amount of support until he or she remarries or passes away.

Representing Your Interests When It Makes Sense To Modify Alimony

A change in the financial circumstances of either party may necessitate the modification of an existing alimony court order. I represent clients in post-divorce modification matters, whether they are petitioning the court for a change or they need to fight a modification request.

Like most divorce matters, reaching a fair spousal support agreement is a complex matter. It is smart to have the guidance of a Chattanooga spousal support attorney.

Take the next step. Call us.

Your next step is to meet with an attorney to learn what’s at stake, learn how to protect yourself, and learn how to move forward to a place of safety. Call 423-304-6827 or use our contact form to schedule an appointment.