When facing a divorce, worrying about your financial wellbeing is only natural. You may wonder if you can maintain the comforts you have grown accustomed to during your marriage.
These worries often link to questions about alimony. Should you file for alimony? Is it likely you will receive it?
One factor that could impact the likelihood?
If there is a significant difference between your income and your spouse’s, or a gap in your financial standing, that is a key factor that could increase the likelihood of being awarded alimony.
But there are many other subjective factors to note
While a difference in income may increase the likelihood of receiving alimony, it can be difficult to state just how likely it is. Why? Primarily because alimony is incredibly subjective.
North Carolina law outlines factors considered to determine the amount and whether alimony is temporary or long-term – and all of these factors are very specific to your circumstances. They include, but are not limited to:
- How long you were married
- Each spouse’s income and contributions to the household
- Each spouse’s financial needs and standard of living
Alimony is entirely dependent on these factors, and those factors are entirely dependent on your personal circumstances.
So, what should you do?
If you are worried about your financial health after a divorce, you may very well wish to consider pursuing alimony. In these cases, it will be critical to:
- Review your finances carefully, and evaluate the list of factors that help determine alimony.
- Consider your needs now, and how those needs may change after the divorce. Make sure to factor in how dividing marital property will impact your financial circumstances post-divorce.
- Speak with an attorney. It can help to discuss your concerns with someone who knows North Carolina law, and who can help you understand the nuances of alimony.
While stating whether or not it is likely for someone to obtain alimony can be difficult due to its subjectivity, understanding the details of your financial situation can help immensely on that front. Evaluating your circumstances is what can help determine the likelihood.