This is a generic Affidavit to accompany a Motion to amend or strike alimony provisions of a divorce decree because of the obligor spouse's changed financial condition. This form is a generic example that may be referred to when preparing such a form for your particular state. It is for illustrative purposes only. Local laws should be consulted to determine any specific requirements for such a form in a particular jurisdiction.
Alimony And Child Support In Massachusetts In New York
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Not all divorces qualify for alimony. Courts consider factors like the length of marriage, income disparity between spouses, and ability to be self-sufficient. Generally, the higher-earning spouse supports the lower-earning spouse to maintain their pre-divorce standard of living.
To qualify for alimony support, the receiving spouse must prove financial hardship and make a case for monetary assistance, whether temporary or long-term.
If the parent has enough contact with Massachusetts (if the child was conceived here, the parent paying support lived with the child here or sent the child to live here), we may be able to ask a Massachusetts court to order child support payments even though the other parent doesn't live here.
The best way to avoid paying alimony in the event of a divorce is to sign a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement. These agreements, once seen as unromantic, now serve as a strategic way to protect individual assets in case of separation or the need to dissolve the marriage.
In most cases, if a spouse can work and their former spouse cannot afford to provide spousal support, the court can deny alimony. It is pertinent to note that New York is a no-fault divorce state, meaning both parties could cite fault grounds, however, it will not affect whether a spouse is granted spousal maintenance.
In New York, if a marriage lasts a long time and a spouse is old, ill or unable to support themselves, permanent alimony may be awarded.
Child support is never deductible and isn't considered income. Additionally, if a divorce or separation instrument provides for alimony and child support, and the payer spouse pays less than the total required, the payments apply to child support first. Only the remaining amount is considered alimony.
Between 10 and 15 years: general term alimony can last for no longer than 70% of the number of months of the marriage. Between 15 and 20 years: general term alimony can last for no longer than 80% of the number of months of the marriage. Longer than 20 years: general term alimony can last indefinitely.