Alimony Guidelines-A General Overview

If you are facing a divorce and want to know more about alimony guidelines, there is no hard and set rule to help you. No specific guidelines have been set in any state so judges use parameters to help them come up with a fair amount. These parameters do vary by state, but there are seven general ones that are typically used. Be aware though that the final decision lies with the judge in charge of your case. Here are the seven criteria frequently used in making the decision.

The first consideration will be the length of the marriage. This is considered to be very important. The longer you have been married, the more money will be involved. Next the judge will look at how much each spouse makes and how the marriage has affected his or her ability to support himself or herself. The age of the person requesting alimony will be factored in along with education level. If any children are involved, this will be factored in. This is true even if they are grown as the person requesting alimony may have left the work force to act as the primary caregiver. Finally, the income of the person who will pay alimony is looked at.

The Kaufman Alimony Guidelines may be used in this situation. These guidelines were established by Craig Ross of Ann Arbor, Michigan at the request of a judge. When these guidelines are used, the same criteria mentioned above are looked at. They will be given weight based on the spousal support guidelines established by Mr. Ross and a score is established. The marriage duration accounts for 30% of the score while the income accounts for 35%. Age and children each count for 10% and education counts for 15%. A score is then given and a formula is used to determine the amount of alimony to be paid.

Alimony guidelines are guidelines though. Judges have discretion in this area. If you feel the alimony award is not fair, an appeal may be filed and you must be able to show how or why the amount is unjust. This will increase your chances of winning and ensure the amount is fair for both parties.

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