Alimony in a Newburyport Divorce: An Overview

At Turco Legal, our Newburyport family law attorney offers deep expertise in the complexities of spousal support cases. We approach each case with thoughtfulness and a practical mindset, focusing on providing clarity for those navigating alimony issues. If you have questions about your rights under Massachusetts alimony laws, we are here to provide informed guidance. Call us at (978) 225-9030 or contact us online. Schedule a confidential consultation with a Newburyport family law attorney.

Alimony: Understanding the Basics

Alimony, or spousal support, refers to financial assistance one spouse provides to the other after divorce. This maintenance ensures stability. Whether you are entitled to receive or are required to pay alimony depends on the specific circumstances of your marriage and divorce. Importantly, alimony is not automatically granted in every case, and its amount and duration will vary based on a variety of factors.

Four Types of Alimony in Massachusetts

Under Massachusetts law, the court may consider four different types of alimony when determining spousal support in a divorce case. Each type serves a distinct purpose, depending on the situation of the individuals involved. Below is an outline of the four types of alimony available in Newburyport, MA:

• General Term Alimony: General term spousal support is a kind of alimony paid by the payor-spouse to the spouse who is economically dependent on the payor. The length and amount of general term alimony vary depending on the duration of the marriage, the financial circumstances of the parties, and other factors deemed relevant by the court.
• Rehabilitative Alimony: Rehabilitative spousal maintenance is a type of short-term alimony designed to help the recipient become financially self-sufficient. It could be paid to help a person go back to school, get job training, or support themselves through a job search.
• Reimbursement Alimony: Reimbursement alimony helps to ensure that a person is repaid for certain expenses that they incurred prior to a divorce. This type of spousal support may be awarded to a person who worked full-time while their partner attended graduate school and got the skills needed to get a higher-paying job, for example.
• Transitional Alimony: Transitional alimony is a type of short-term alimony that is meant to help a financially vulnerable person navigate the changes brought on by a divorce. For example, transitional alimony may be used to cover moving and living expenses during the immediate aftermath of a divorce.

Understanding Massachusetts Guidelines for General Term Alimony

If you are going through a divorce in Newburyport and are concerned about general term alimony, it is important to understand the relevant guidelines. Under Massachusetts law (MGL c.208, § 49(b)), the duration of general term alimony is as follows.

• Length of marriage is 5 years or less: Alimony can continue for no more than half the length of the marriage.
• Length of marriage is more than 5 years but 10 years or less: Alimony can continue for no more than 60 percent of the length of the marriage.
• Length of marriage is more than 10 years but 15 years or less: Alimony can continue for no more than 70 percent of the length of the marriage.
• Length of marriage is more than 15 years but 20 years or less: Alimony can continue for no more than 80 percent of the length of the marriage.
• Marriage is longer than 20 years: No limit. Indefinite alimony can be awarded.

Alimony: A Case-by-Case Determination

It is essential to remember that alimony determinations in Massachusetts are not based on fixed rules. Instead, they are made on a case-by-case basis, with the court considering various factors such as:

• The length of the marriage;
• Current and/or future financial position of both spouses;
• Any sacrifices made by the parties for the marriage or the family; and,
• Marital misconduct that led to the breakdown of the relationship.

How Our Newburyport, MA Family Law Attorneys Can Assist You

Alimony cases can be complex and require careful consideration. At Turco Legal, we are experienced in handling intricate divorce matters, including those involving spousal support. When you work with us, you can expect:

• A thoughtful discussion of your unique situation and answers to your questions about alimony in Massachusetts;

• A thorough investigation of your case, including the collection and organization of pertinent financial documents;

• Strong advocacy on your behalf during settlement discussions; and

• A customized legal strategy focused on protecting your interests.

Contact Our Newburyport Family Law Attorneys for Support

At Turco Legal, we are dedicated to helping our clients navigate the challenges of divorce with minimal conflict and maximum effectiveness. If you have questions or concerns about alimony in Massachusetts, we are here to help. Call us at (978) 225-9030 or contact us online to schedule a confidential consultation. We proudly serve clients in Newburyport, Essex County, and throughout Massachusetts.