When it comes to divorce, there is often a financial burden placed on one party upon separation. The spouse who earns less may be faced with the pressure of finding a new job to replace the income enjoyed while married. If you assume that the woman is the partner in this position, you may be surprised to learn that it is men who are increasingly being named as recipients of alimony after a divorce. According to Reuters, in fact, shifting social values have motivated more men to seek support. There are several other reasons, too, and things to consider regarding men and alimony.
Men may be more likely to get alimony if you have kids
Alimony and child support are separate issues, but they are sometimes linked in the fact that parents who are divorcing may be more likely to seek alimony in addition to child support. If you and your spouse have children together, the husband in the relationship may be motivated to seek out as much support as is available to smooth the transition for himself and the kids after separating.
Spousal support can take several forms
If you think of alimony and imagine monthly payments for the rest of your life, you should know that this is rarely the form spousal support takes. More often, such payments are temporary and granted under the stipulation that the supported spouse make progress towards self-sufficiency. Rather than incremental payments, alimony may also take the form of a single lump sum.
Women are often earning more than men
Perhaps the most obvious reason why more men are seeking and receiving spousal support is the increase in women who are the primary earners in the family. As more women pursue high profile careers and more men stay at home with kids, it makes sense that gender roles are also shifting with regard to spousal support.
Alimony is calculated based on several factors
Regardless of your gender, alimony is calculated by taking several factors into account. A judge will be responsible for the ruling, typically, and will consider how much each spouse may be capable of earning as well as what expenses each may face. More importantly, however, the judge will consider whether alimony allows both parties to maintain the standard of living that had been established throughout the marriage.
If you are facing a divorce and have questions or concerns about spousal support, a divorce attorney can help you understand your legal options and obligations.
