When it comes to divorce, one of the most contentious issues is often alimony. While it is intended to provide financial support to a spouse who is not the primary breadwinner, it can also cause heated debate and conflict.
Different Types of Alimony Payments
In North Carolina, there are three different types of alimony that a judge can award: permanent alimony, temporary alimony, and post-separation support.
- Permanent alimony. Just what it sounds like—it is intended to be paid indefinitely until either the death of either spouse or the remarriage of the receiving spouse. A judge will consider several factors when determining whether to award permanent alimony, including the length of the marriage, the earning capacity of each spouse, and the standard of living the couple enjoyed during the marriage.
- Temporary alimony. It is intended to provide financial support for a limited period, usually, until the receiving spouse can get back on their feet financially. A judge will consider the same factors as they would for permanent alimony when deciding on temporary alimony, but the main difference is that temporary alimony is not meant to be a long-term solution.
- Post-separation support. Similar to temporary alimony in that it is intended to provide financial support for a limited period. However, post-separation support is typically awarded when the divorce is ongoing, the couple is living separately, and only in cases where one spouse is at a significant financial disadvantage compared to the other. For example, if one spouse is unemployed and the other is working while both are living separately, the judge may award post-separation support to help the unemployed spouse get back on their feet.
In addition to the three types of alimony mentioned above, a couple can also agree to a lump sum alimony. Lump sum alimony is a single, large payment that is made in one lump sum. This type of alimony is typically only awarded in cases where one spouse can pay a large sum of money all at once. By making one single large pre-agreed Lump sum alimony payment the supporting spouse gets out of the obligation of making routine alimony payments to the dependant spouse.
A Family Lawyer
If you are going through a divorce and alimony is an issue, it is important to understand the different types of alimony and how they may affect you. An experienced family law attorney like those working at our firm can help you navigate the complex world of alimony and ensure that you are getting the financial support you need.
Get the Best Help
GPS Law Group should be your first choice when it comes to the sensitive and important issue of alimony in Charlotte, North Carolina. Whether you are a dependent spouse or a supporting spouse, our team of experienced family law attorneys can help you reach a fair and just settlement.
For dependant spouses, we will fight to ensure that you receive the financial support you need to maintain your standard of living. For supporting spouses, we will work to make sure that your alimony payments are fair and affordable. In either case, our ultimate goal is to help you reach a settlement that is fair and equitable.
GPS Law Group has been a part of the Charlotte community for over 20 years, and we have seen first-hand the ways that divorce and alimony can impact families. We understand the unique challenges that Charlotte families face, and we are dedicated to helping our clients overcome these challenges.
If you are facing divorce in Charlotte or the surrounding communities, call us at (704) 549-1950 or use our online contact form to send a message and set up a consultation. We would be honored to help you navigate this difficult time in your life.
GPS Law Group serves Charlotte, North Carolina, and the surrounding communities.