When a couple decides to divorce, one of the most hotly-contested factors in the final agreement is spousal support. The concept of alimony was created in order to limit the economic effect that a divorce would place upon the spouse who earned significantly less that the other party or did not earn wages at all. In Kentucky, alimony can also influence the distribution of property.
Unlike the established and relatively uniform child support financial guidelines that exist in most every state, each state has different guidelines as to how alimony is determined. States have significant latitude as to when, and if, alimony is awarded. If alimony is awarded, the state can determine how much a spouse is entitled to and how long the spouse can receive payments.
There are many factors that can affect the decision to grant and determine alimony. Factors can include things such as the former spouses' emotional, financial and physical conditions. Also, the length of time that alimony is granted could be influenced by the amount of time that the couple was married, the standard of living while they were married, and the economic viability of the payer spouse.
Many in Kentucky facing divorce seek the advice of an experienced divorce attorney. Attorneys in this area of law will be in the best position to discuss the various legal issues that their clients may face. Additionally, an attorney who knows the specific laws in Kentucky can assist his or her clients in navigating the complex alimony laws, which could be financially vital in a divorce settlement.