What is Temporary Alimony?
Temporary alimony, also known as alimony pendente lite, is a type of financial support that one spouse may be required to pay to the other during the course of divorce proceedings, but before the divorce is finalized. It is designed to help the lower-earning spouse maintain their financial stability and cover essential expenses while the divorce process is ongoing.
Temporary alimony is temporary by nature, and its purpose is to address the immediate financial needs of the dependent spouse until a final divorce decree is issued.
Key Points About Temporary Alimony
1. Duration
Temporary alimony is typically awarded for a specific period, often during the divorce process itself. It ends when the divorce is finalized, and a permanent alimony or other financial arrangement may replace it.
2. Purpose
The primary purpose of temporary alimony is to ensure that the dependent spouse can meet their basic financial needs during the divorce process. It helps maintain the status quo and prevents financial hardship while legal matters are resolved.
3. Factors
Courts consider various factors when determining the amount and duration of temporary alimony. These factors may include the financial needs of the dependent spouse, the paying spouse’s ability to provide support, the standard of living during the marriage, and other relevant financial details.
4. Modification
Temporary alimony orders can be modified if circumstances change during the divorce process. For example, if one spouse experiences a significant change in income or employment status, they can request a modification of the temporary alimony order.
5. Termination
Temporary alimony automatically ends when the divorce is finalized, at which point a permanent alimony arrangement may be established if deemed necessary.
It’s important to note that temporary alimony is distinct from permanent alimony, which is awarded as part of the final divorce decree and may continue for a longer duration or indefinitely, depending on the specific circumstances of the case. Temporary alimony serves as a bridge to provide financial support while divorce-related matters are resolved and a final financial arrangement is determined by the court.
Divorce Attorneys in Boca Raton
Fighting to Provide You with the Spousal Support You Deserve
One of the most difficult issues in a divorce is deciding how to split assets, such as property division and income, between you and your spouse. When there is a large income disparity between the two spouses, alimony may be included as part of a divorce settlement or ruling.
If you are considering or going through a divorce and are uncertain how alimony may be involved in your case, contact the experienced Boca Raton alimony lawyers of Klein Law Group at 561-353-2800 today.
