Divorce Lawyers Austin, TX
Answers to Common Questions Asked of Divorce Lawyers Austin, TX Offers
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Alimony, also known as spousal support or spousal maintenance, is usually awarded in the initial divorce decree. The terms of the alimony payments will vary and can be affected by state guidelines. Laws tend to be similar in most states; thus, we have provided readers with a general discussion regarding how alimony payments can be increased under certain circumstances. Consult divorce lawyers in Austin, TX from The Law Offices of Ryan S. Dougay to learn how your unique set of circumstances might be affected or treated by the court.
Understanding the Different Types of Alimony
States recognize three types of alimony. Your divorce lawyers in Austin, TX can review your circumstances to determine which is most appropriate to your situation. The three types are:
1. Lump sum alimony: An amount paid one time or over a period of time to help the spouse who may be in a financially vulnerable position following the divorce.
2. Rehabilitative alimony: A monthly sum paid for a short period of time and meant to help the spouse obtain education or training that can help him or her to financially support themself.
3. Permanent alimony: A monthly sum paid indefinitely or until the spouse dies, remarries, or cohabitates with another life partner. This type of alimony is not common and is generally awarded only when a spouse never worked and is no longer able to develop the skills needed to pursue and maintain a new career.
Alimony Awarded in the Final Divorce Decree
It is possible for each spouse and their divorce lawyers in Austin, TX to reach an agreement regarding the alimony terms. This will then be incorporated into the divorce decree. If an agreement cannot be reached, the judge may refer to state laws and make calculations based on various factors to determine the terms. These may include each spouse’s:
- Education
- Earning capacity
- Current job
- Retirement
- Pensions
- Age
- Physical and mental health
- Contributions made to the marriage
- Lifestyle expectations
- Whether or not children are involved
It can be favorable for both spouses to come to a mutual agreement because they will have the opportunity to dictate when alimony will increase, decrease, or end. They might also decide to award alimony as a lump sum. In general, this is not modifiable. Coming to an agreement is usually done through out-of-court mediation, and with the guidance of skilled divorce lawyers in Austin, TX.
Modifying Alimony
Alimony can typically only be modified when there is a change in circumstances that has an effect on the earning capacity and needs of the spouses. A judge might consider factors such as a job loss, illness, or pay raise for either the paying or the receiving spouse. There may be additional reasons to modify alimony payments. These will likely be based on your individual situation and should be further by your divorce lawyers in Austin, TX.
Contact One of the Divorce Lawyers Austin, TX Community Members Respects
Whether you are seeking to reduce alimony payments you are obligated to pay, or you would like to learn more about increasing alimony that is to be paid to you, it may benefit you to consult divorce lawyers in Austin, TX. To schedule a consultation with a knowledgeable lawyer you can rely on from The Law Offices of Ryan S. Dougay, call now.