Guiding Individuals Through The Alimony Process
The Alimony Reform Act that was passed in September 2011 and became law on March 1, 2012, made significant changes to how the courts calculate and set spousal support. The new law applies to all alimony judgments entered on or after March 1, 2012.
Under the new law, one primary factor for calculating the terms of the alimony agreement is the length of the marriage. As a general guideline:
- If a marriage lasted five years or less, the presumed alimony term under the law is up to 50 percent of the number of months of the marriage.
- If a marriage lasted between five and 10 years, the presumed alimony term under the law is up to 60 percent of the number of months of marriage.
- If a marriage lasted between 10 and 15 years, the presumed alimony term under the law is up to 70 percent of the number of months of marriage.
- If a marriage lasted between 15 and 20 years, the presumed alimony term under the law is up to 80 percent of the number of months of marriage.
- If a marriage lasted for 20 years or more, alimony presumptively ends at retirement age as defined by the Social Security Act.
Other factors can affect the amount or length of alimony, including remarriage or cohabitation of an alimony recipient. Given the new tax laws that will be effective this year (2018), there may be many additional factors that affect a current alimony obligation, or a new one that the court may enter.
The knowledgeable and experienced lawyers at Kajko, Weisman & Colasanti, LLP, advocate for their clients in all aspects of family law matters.
If you have questions regarding alimony or any family law matters, our Lexington alimony attorneys will meet with you and provide a straightforward assessment of what you can expect. Call 781-860-9500, or use our contact form to schedule an appointment.
