Alimony: Is it Forever in Chicago Divorce Cases? Find Out How Long Alimony Lasts and How to Get Legal Help with Your Chicago Divorce Here

There is no question that for many people going through a divorce in Chicago, the topic of alimony can feel overwhelming and unclear. Questions like “How much will I have to pay?” or “Will I receive support indefinitely?” can create stress on top of an already emotional situation. In Chicago divorce cases, spousal maintenance (commonly known as alimony) is not a one-size-fits-all issue. As such, understanding how it works and how long it may last is essential for anyone navigating a divorce. Here we explain how long alimony may last in a Chicago divorce case and where to get legal help now.

The Basics of Alimony in Chicago Divorce Cases

To get started, it is important to know a little bit about the basics of alimony in Chicago divorce cases. Alimony, officially referred to as spousal maintenance in Illinois, is financial support that one spouse may be required to pay the other after divorce. The goal is to ensure that both parties can maintain a reasonably comparable standard of living, especially if one spouse was financially dependent during the marriage. There are several types of alimony in Illinois, and each type serves a different purpose. Consulting with an experienced Chicago divorce lawyer about your specific case is the best way to better understand why type of alimony might be awarded in your case.

How Long Does Alimony Last in Chicago Divorce Cases?

So, then, how long does alimony typically last in Chicago divorces? The answer is: it depends. Indeed, the duration of alimony in Chicago, and throughout Illinois, depends heavily on a number of factors, including the length of the marriage and the specific circumstances of the spouses involved. Under Illinois law, there is a sliding scale that determines how long maintenance is awarded based on the number of years the couple was married. For example, while a marriage lasting less than five years might result in maintenance for only part of the length of the marriage, marriages lasting 20 years or more may result in permanent maintenance. Chicago judges may also consider factors like each spouse’s income, earning capacity, health, age, and contributions to the marriage. Because the guidelines allow for judicial discretion, outcomes can vary significantly from case to case. This is why it is important to have an experienced Chicago divorce lawyer on your side.

Getting Legal Help with Your Chicago Divorce Case

Alimony is a tricky issue for many individuals who are divorcing in Chicago, and the important thing to know is that you do not have to face your Chicago divorce case alone. If you are in the Chicago area and you need legal help with your Chicago divorce, contact the experienced Chicago divorce lawyers at the law firm Arnoux Sharma Standeford, LLC. The experienced Chicago divorce lawyers at Arnoux Sharma Standeford, LLC are here to help. Contact Arnoux Sharma Standeford, LLC today and speak to a lawyer about your case now.