Family LAW

It must be understood from the beginning that the family law court will not always determine that alimony should be paid. There are some circumstances in which the court will rule that there is no need for alimony payments. In other cases, the court will determine that a combination of different types of alimony should be awarded during or following separation or divorce.

At Fidelis Law, PLLC, we work to achieve what is in the best interests of our clients. While our guiding principles are faith-based, our primary concern is serving each of our clients responsibly and comprehensibly. Our clients appreciate our concern for their marriages and gaining an understanding of all options available to them. If disputes can still be reconciled to save your marriage, our team will help you find the resources to do so.

Tennessee allows for four different types of alimony in separations and divorces. We will help you fully understand each type of alimony and how it applies to your specific circumstances. Different types of alimony may be available for different stages of the process:

1. Rehabilitative alimony
   The family law court will determine the payment amounts and duration of rehabilitative alimony, which is meant to provide the economically disadvantaged spouse the means to maintain the standard of living that was enjoyed during the marriage or the standard that is available to the other spouse following divorce or separation.
2. Periodic alimony (alimony in futuro)
   Alimony in futuro is a substitute for rehabilitative alimony if standards of living cannot be matched. The court will determine the level of payments and the duration based on several factors. Payments generally last until the recipient party remarries or until one party dies. The paying party may also request modification of payments if the recipient party begins living with a third party.
3. Transitional alimony
   The transitional period is determined by the economic circumstances that will allow the economically disadvantaged spouse to maintain the standard of living set during the marriage. The court will either determine a set time period of payment duration or order the alimony to only end upon the death of the payer or the recipient.
4. Lump-sum alimony (alimony in solido)
   Alimony in solido can be awarded separately or in addition to other types of alimony. It can be paid through installments or in one lump sum.

Our attorneys will discuss the several alimony options available in your particular situation and provide you with the knowledge to pursue an informed strategy in securing the alimony agreement that is best for you.