Tuesday, June 8, 2010

Change is Coming














Hear ye Hear ye. Change is coming and in less than 6 months (1-1-2011). So what is it? Changes in how the law deals with alimony. 

Alimony is always a sticky subject and one that has not had any real clear definitions until now. In the new law we have a clear cut definition on what a short term, moderate and long term divorce looks like and we have multiple types of alimony. Here we go.

First: The court may consider the ADULTERY of either spouse and the circumstances thereof in determining the amount of alimony, if any, to be awarded. If you want to cheat.........IT'S GOING TO COST YOU! You've been warned. Faithfulness pays!

Second: A short term marriage = less than 7 years. A moderate term marriage = greater than 7 years but less than 17 years. A long term marriage = 17 years or greater.  VERY IMPORTANT: The length of a marriage is the period of time from the date of marriage until the date of filing of an action for dissolution of marriage.

Third: Alimony is based on need vs. ability to pay. 

Fourth: There are factors to consider in determining alimony and below I will only name 3 of 10:
(a) The standard of living established during the marriage. 
(b) The duration of the marriage. 
(c) The financial resources of each party.

Fifth: There are different types of alimony. For a further explanation we can discuss the details in your mediation and determine which one might be appropriate and fit your particular situation.
(a) Bridge-the-gap
(b) Rehabilitative
(c) Durational
(d) Permanent

iChat Mediation invites you to come and learn more about having either your divorce conducted by one of our State Supreme Court Certified mediators or how you can become part of the most cutting edge virtual companies in the world. To learn more visit us online at http://www.ichatmediation.com or call us at 877-822-1479. Bill No. CS/HB 907


In the words of Lawton Chiles, “I didn’t come to stay, I came to make a difference.” 

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