South Carolina Alimony Attorneys

Many factors are considered in awarding alimony

Alimony is financial support paid to a former spouse. There are different types of alimony in South Carolina. Permanent, periodic alimony is paid on a regular schedule overtime. It terminates on the death of either party or the payee spouse's cohabitation or remarriage. Permanent, periodic alimony is taxable as income to the payee spouse and may be deducted by the payor. This alimony is modifiable based on a showing of a substantial change in circumstances

Some spouses pay lump sum alimony – an agreed upon set amount. It can be paid in one payment or in a defined schedule of payments. For example, a $50,000 fixed sum can be paid all at once, or overtime on a schedule. This alimony is typically non-modifiable, i.e. it cannot be changed based on a showing of a change in circumstances. Some spouses pay rehabilitative alimony for a time, to help their ex-spouse return to the workforce. Much like lump sum, this alimony is defined and typically non-modifiable.

South Carolina law requires Family Courts to consider a number of factors in making a ruling on an alimony request.

  • Duration of the marriage, including the ages of spouses at time of marriage and at time of divorce
  • Physical and emotional condition of each spouse
  • Educational background of each spouse together with need of each spouse for additional training or education in order to achieve that spouse's income potential
  • Employment history and earning potential of each spouse
  • Standard of living established during marriage
  • Current and reasonably anticipated earnings of both spouses
  • Current and reasonably anticipated expenses and needs of both spouses
  • Marital and non-marital properties of each spouse
  • Custody of the children
  • Marital misconduct or fault of either spouse
  • Tax consequences of support award
  • Existence and extent of support obligation from a prior marriage

Spousal support may be ordered pending a final divorce.

Contact The Bleecker Law Firm, LLC today to discuss your South Carolina family law, divorce, mediation, and related probate litigation questions. We practice in all South Carolina family courts.