Alimony in Maryland
If you are entering or preparing to enter the divorce process, one of the many things that may be decided during the process is alimony. How is alimony in Maryland calculated, and could you be eligible to receive it?
What Is Alimony in Maryland?
Alimony is a payment made from one former spouse to the other. It is designed to allow the spouse receiving the money to become self-supporting and bridge the gap between the income that they used to live on and the income that they bring in on their own. Alimony is awarded before the divorce is finalized, so you cannot go back and get alimony once the marriage has ended to make a claim.
What Are the Types of Alimony in Maryland?
- Alimony pendente lite: This alimony can be granted to cover the time between when you file for divorce and the day that the divorce is finalized.
- Rehabilitative alimony: This form of alimony is the most frequently awarded type, and it is often used to help support a spouse while they return to school or complete a degree program that can help them to support themselves. Rehabilitative alimony can be awarded for a few months or even ten years.
- Indefinite alimony: This alimony is awarded without a defined endpoint, and some spouses can be eligible to receive indefinite alimony due to a disability, age, illness, or other factors that prevent them from making progress towards supporting themselves or enjoying a standard of living close to their ex-spouse.
What Factors Are Considered?
The court looks at many factors to determine whether alimony in Maryland is appropriate. Some of these factors include:
- The length of the marriage
- The financial situation during the marriage
- The anticipated post-divorce financial situation of each party
- Age, physical health and mental health
- The reasons for a divorce
- The ability of each party to be wholly or partially self-supporting
- Existing agreements between the partners to pay a certain amount
- All income and assets
- The financial obligations of each party
- If the spouse being asked for alimony can meet the needs of themselves and the party looking for alimony payments
Because every case for alimony in Maryland is different, it’s critical to partner with an experienced attorney. Lebovitz Law can fight for the alimony that you deserve during the divorce process.
Get Help with Alimony in Maryland During a Divorce from Lebovitz Law
Whether you are searching for an experienced lawyer to assist with your divorce or another family law issue, Lebovitz Law can help. To learn more about how we can assist you, please contact us today.