Alimony Attorney in Cordova, Tennessee  

The emotions and legal challenges that accompany divorce are often complicated and overwhelming, especially when it comes to financial matters such as alimony. For many, the thought of determining or negotiating a fair spousal support arrangement causes significant stress.  

Whether you are seeking spousal support or being asked to provide it, understanding your rights and obligations is crucial. At the Law & Mediation Office of Sarah Turner, Attorney Sarah Turner is committed to providing compassionate and knowledgeable guidance to individuals in Cordova, Memphis, Tipton County, Fayette County, and throughout West Tennessee.  

With over a decade of legal experience and a firm commitment to fair resolutions, Sarah can help you pursue the financial stability you deserve post-divorce. Contact the firm to schedule a consultation today and start working toward a fair alimony agreement.  

What is Alimony?  

Alimony, also referred to as spousal support, is a court-ordered payment made by one spouse to the other during or after a divorce. These payments aim to balance the financial disparities between spouses, ensuring neither party is left at a severe disadvantage after the marriage ends, and are most often required to be made on a monthly basis.

Tennessee recognizes the importance of fairness in alimony arrangements; however, navigating the laws and guidelines can be challenging without help from experienced legal counsel. Each alimony case is unique, and courts consider factors such as each spouse's earning capacity, the duration of the marriage, and their respective contributions to the union when determining support. 

Types of Alimony in Tennessee

Tennessee has four (4) types of alimony that may be awarded to either spouse during and as a result of a divorce. The four (4) types of alimony are rehabilitative alimony, transitional alimony, alimony in futuro, and alimony in solido. The type of alimony awarded will depend on the nature of the marriage and the circumstances of both spouses. Understanding the various types is critical for any individual navigating the divorce process.

Rehabilitative Alimony 

This is the most commonly awarded form of spousal support in Tennessee. Rehabilitative alimony is money paid from one spouse to another for the purpose of "rehabilitating" the receiving spouse. Rehabilitation (in the alimony sense) means to achieve, with reasonable effort, an earning capacity that allows the economically disadvantaged spouse to enjoy a standard of living post-divorce that is reasonably similar to the standard of living enjoyed during the marriage or to the post-divorce standard of living available to the paying spouse. Rehabilitative alimony is subject to modification by the court at any time, meaning the alimony amount can be increased, decreased, terminated, or extended beyond its original end date (so long as modification is sought while the original obligation is ongoing).

Transitional Alimony 

Transitional alimony is alimony awarded to one spouse for a specified period of time. Transitional alimony is awarded where rehabilitation is not necessary, but the economically disadvantaged spouse nonetheless requires the financial support of the other spouse to adjust to single life. Transitional alimony is generally not modifiable by the court, meaning the amount and duration of alimony is final once it is set.

Alimony in Futuro (Periodic Alimony) 

Alimony in futuro is "long-term alimony," meaning the alimony obligation continues until the death of either party or the remarriage of the spouse receiving alimony. This alimony is awarded when rehabilitation of the economically disadvantaged spouse is not feasible, meaning the disadvantaged spouse is never going to be able to achieve a lifestyle comparable to the other spouse post divorce or a lifestyle comparable to the pre-divorce standard of living. This alimony too is always modifiable by the courts. However, recent case law in Tennessee has found that alimony in futuro should be awarded sparingly by the courts.

Alimony in Solido (Lump-Sum Alimony) 

The final type of alimony available in Tennessee is alimony in solido or "lump sum alimony." This is also a form of long-term support (similar to alimony in futuro). However, the total amount of that support is known on the date of divorce (similar to transitional alimony) and can be required to be paid in a lump sum amount. Although the exact amount of the alimony obligation is known on the date of divorce, that does not mean the entire amount must be paid in a lump sum. Instead, the courts may order alimony in solido to be paid in monthly installments, just like all other forms of alimony. The purpose of alimony in solido is to provide financial assistance to the economically disadvantaged spouse and/or to help equitably divide the marital estate. Alimony in solido is not modifiable by the courts and is the only form of alimony in Tennessee that, by statute, does not terminate upon the death of either party.

Factors Courts Consider When Awarding Alimony  

Tennessee family courts aim to ensure that alimony awards are just and equitable. While no two cases are alike, courts generally consider the following factors when determining alimony arrangements: 

• Length of the marriage: Long-term marriages are more likely to result in significant alimony awards than shorter unions. 

• Financial resources of each spouse: The court examines each spouse’s financial situation, including income, assets, and liabilities, to assess the need for support. 

• Earning capacity and education: The ability of each spouse to achieve financial independence through employment or further education is a critical consideration. 

• Contributions to the marriage: This includes both financial and non-monetary contributions, such as raising children and supporting the other spouse's career. 

• Standard of living: Courts strive to preserve the standard of living established during the marriage to the greatest extent possible. 

• Age and health: Older spouses or those with significant health issues may receive greater support due to a limited ability to work. 

These factors will influence the court’s decision regarding alimony. Each case is unique, and additional specific details may also play a role in shaping the final outcome. 

How Sarah Turner Can Help  

The divorce process is rarely straightforward, especially when issues of alimony arise. At the Law & Mediation Office of Sarah Turner, Sarah provides the compassionate and strategic representation clients need to achieve favorable outcomes.  

Whether you need assistance negotiating an alimony agreement, seeking modifications, or contesting unfair demands, Sarah will advocate for you to protect your rights and make your voice heard. 

Sarah’s approach to family law is rooted in empathy and understanding. She recognizes that each client’s situation is unique and takes the time to listen carefully, craft personalized strategies, and stand by clients at every step.  

Alimony FAQ  

Can alimony payments be modified in Tennessee?  

The answer is "maybe." Some forms of alimony payments in Tennessee can be modified if there is a substantial and material change in circumstances, such as a significant increase in income, a job loss, or a change in the recipient's financial needs, but not all forms of alimony are modifiable; and even those that are modifiable require you to file a petition with the court to request a modification of the existing alimony arrangement. 

Does alimony end if the recipient remarries or cohabitates in Tennessee?  

In Tennessee, alimony typically ends if the recipient remarries. Cohabitation with a new partner may also impact alimony, as the court will evaluate whether the new living arrangement affects the recipient’s financial need. 

Is alimony taxable in Tennessee?  

Under current federal tax laws, alimony payments are not tax-deductible for the payer nor considered taxable income for the recipient for agreements finalized after December 31, 2018. Agreements made before this date may be subject to previous tax rules unless modified after 2018. 

Contact the Law & Mediation Office of Sarah Turner  

If you are facing alimony-related challenges, reach out to the Law & Mediation Office of Sarah Turner. The Law & Mediation Office of Sarah Turner serves the Memphis, Shelby County, Tipton County, Fayette County, Hardeman County, and West Tennessee areas. Sarah brings over a decade of service dedicated to family law and a client-centered approach to pursuing equitable solutions.