The plethora of decisions that need to be made when a divorce is being settled can be endless and greatly depends on the individuals involved. For some people going through divorce in Missouri, alimony may be one of those issues that needs to be discussed and negotiated. Before agreeing to pay, receive or forgo any kind of alimony agreement, it is best to have a clear idea of the facts and the issues that may impact the role of alimony during and after a divorce.

Alimony is determined based on a number of factors, including the length of the marriage. The income generated by both spouses or an individual party also affects alimony. The ability of each person to work and earn a living, along with any pertinent health issues, may also play a role in whether alimony is ordered and the length of time for which alimony is ordered.

Once an amount and timeline are on the table, each party may need to know more facts about alimony. One important factor to understand is that remarriage will impact an alimony agreement. Also, if the payer of alimony has a drastic reduction income or reaches retirement age, the alimony terms may be modified or the alimony can be discontinued.

Alimony can have a huge impact on both individuals after a divorce and for years to come. Alimony is also not a given right that will automatically be ordered in every case. Each individual pursuing a divorce in Missouri needs to explore how alimony may impact his or her divorce and what kind of action can be taken if permanent changes warrant a reduction in or halt to payments.

Source: huffingtonpost.com, “Divorce Confidential: Alimony — Are You On The Hook?“, Caroline Choi, Nov. 13, 2015