Nashville Spousal Support Lawyer
Spousal Support Attorney In Nashville, TN
The end of a marriage doesn’t always affect both people the same way. In some cases, one spouse may face significant financial strains as a result of the divorce. Spousal support, also known as alimony, is a court-ordered payment that aims to address this issue. If you’re seeking alimony, a Nashville spousal support lawyer may be able to help.
At Mathis, Bates & Klinghard PLLC (MBK Legal), we understand the serious economic impact a divorce can have. Our attorneys draw on extensive knowledge of Tennessee spousal support laws to advocate for fair outcomes. With our family law attorneys by your side, you may have a stronger chance of securing temporary or permanent support to help maintain your standard of living after divorce.
What Are the Laws Regarding Spousal Support in Tennessee?
The laws covering alimony are detailed in Section 36-5-121 of the Tennessee code. Spousal support laws were created to provide financial resources for a lower-earning spouse after a divorce. Determining factors in a spousal support case in Nashville may include:
- Length of the marriage
- Financial capabilities of each spouse
- Standards of living during the marriage
- Each spouse’s financial needs and obligations
- Contributions to the marriage, including homemaking, child care, etc.
- Age and health of each spouse
- Marital property versus separate property per Section 36-4-121 of the Tennessee code
- Any history of financial misconduct from either spouse
- The paying spouse’s ability to provide support
- Whether the payee can become financially independent
With the help of a Nashville spousal support attorney from our firm, you can gain a clearer understanding of the potential outcomes in your case. While every situation is different, we can provide practical insight based on the facts of your marriage and divorce.
How a Lawyer Can Help in Your Spousal Support Case
When you’re going through a spousal support case or think you may do so in the future, you may have many questions. Given the highly personal and time-sensitive nature of your situation, you need answers quickly. We strive to return all client communications within 24 hours.
Our firm can explain how courts typically evaluate spousal support claims and address questions specific to your situation. These cases are generally handled by the Davidson County Circuit Court or the Chancery Court. We can assist from the initial consultation and filing through negotiations, hearings, and the final court order. With our legal team assisting you, spousal support matters can become more organized and manageable.
What Are the Different Types of Spousal Support?
Different types of spousal support exist because of the acknowledged complexities in marriages, shared property, different living standards, and life changes following a divorce. Depending on your situation, you may pursue one or more of the following options:
- Rehabilitative alimony. This option is designed to help a spouse gain education, job skills, or other resources to pursue a financially stable life following a divorce.
- Transitional alimony. This option is used as a temporary financial resource to help a person adjust to life without the income and living standards they had during marriage.
- Alimony in futuro. This option is a long-term type of support that is awarded when it’s determined that a person cannot reasonably achieve financial independence.
- Alimony in solido. This option is a lump-sum payment that can be used to balance asset division after property separation, or to cover attorney’s fees.
Even if you’re unsure which type of spousal support applies to your situation, our experienced legal team can help you evaluate your options. We are highly rated for our client-focused and strategic approach, allowing us to make informed recommendations based on your goals and circumstances.
How Spousal Support Can Make a Difference in a Person’s Life
In the U.S., approximately 35-50% of first marriages end in divorce. That represents millions of people whose financial circumstances have changed dramatically. Although divorce rates declined roughly 28% over the past decade, Tennessee continues to rank among the states with the highest divorce rates.
Median household income in Nashville is over $100,000. While income is only one factor in spousal support determinations, it demonstrates how a person can move from financial stability to economic hardship without proper support. If you’re concerned about your financial future after a divorce, MBK Legal can help.
FAQs
How Soon Should I Hire a Spousal Support Lawyer?
You should reach out to hire a spousal support lawyer as soon as you believe a divorce may be coming. Some couples talk about divorce for months or longer before actually going through with the legal process. Early legal guidance can help you understand your rights, obligations, and potential outcomes before critical decisions are made.
Can You Receive Multiple Types of Spousal Support?
Yes, you can receive multiple types of spousal support. For example, a person may be awarded rehabilitative alimony to help them gain job skills to improve their own standard of living, as well as alimony in solido to even out payments after asset division or to support their general, short-term economic needs after their marriage ends.
Is Spousal Support the Same as Child Support?
No, spousal support is not the same as child support. Spousal support represents a financial payment awarded to one spouse to address financial inequalities and economic impacts after the termination of a marriage. While child support is also a financial payment awarded by courts, it is designed to address the needs of the child and of the custodial parent in caring for their child.
How Long Does it Take to Receive Spousal Support?
The time it takes to receive spousal support can vary depending on several factors. Courts must accurately determine the financial circumstances of both spouses, along with their contributions to the marriage and potential for financial independence. The process can involve several meetings to discuss and dispute evidence before reaching a final decision.
Hire a Spousal Support Lawyer From Our Firm
When you hire a Nashville spousal support lawyer from MBK Legal, you can enjoy access to detailed legal insight plus a proven commitment to client satisfaction. Our highly rated law firm is committed to exceptional service and remains accessible to clients even on evenings and Saturdays. We know spousal support is crucial for your future, so let us put our legal skills to work for you. Contact us today.
