What is the future of alimony?

Wisconsin residents who divorce may no longer have to pay or receive alimony in the future, and if they do, it may be under completely different circumstances. In the last few years, the idea of eliminating or changing the way alimony works has gained ground. While the goal of alimony is to ensure that a husband or wife who sacrificed their career to take care of their family are still taken care of in the event of a divorce, many say the process is unfair and sometimes even abused.

In some cases, court ordered alimony can require an individual to pay for the rest of their life if their ex-spouse does not remarry. Additionally, extenuating circumstances, such as infidelity or substance abuse problems, are not always taken into consideration when people are being ordered to pay alimony. This is why many advocates are urging reforms that could limit the duration of alimony and add flexibility to the decision making process.

Still, not everyone is in favor of these changes. Opponents believe that changing the way alimony works could harm women because they are often the ones who end up staying at home and taking care of children instead of pursuing a career. Those who are against changes are also concerned about formulaic mandates that would keep judges from being able to make appropriate changes to court ordered alimony during a divorce.

Individuals who are going through a divorce will want to ensure that asset division and alimony payments are decided equitably. A lawyer could help someone understand state laws and their potential impact.

Source: MainStreet.com, “Is This the End of Alimony?”, Cheryl Lock, July 01, 2013