The Truth About Alimony in Chicago – Bust 3 Myths About Spousal Maintenance under Illinois Laws and Find a Chicago Maintenance Lawyer to Fight for You
Alimony, also known as “spousal maintenance” in Chicago, under Illinois marriage and divorce laws, is likely one of the most misunderstood aspects of divorce in Chicago. Whether you are the one who may pay or receive spousal maintenance, it is important to understand what the law actually says and how it applies to your specific and unique situation. If you are going through a divorce in Chicago, it is also important not to let common myths shape your expectations about spousal maintenance. To help individuals in Chicago seeking a divorce better understand spousal maintenance under Illinois laws, we discuss three of the most widespread misconceptions about alimony in Illinois and the truth behind them here.
Myth #1. Spousal Maintenance (Alimony) is Guaranteed to be Awarded to One Spouse in Every Chicago Divorce
Some divorcing individuals in Chicago might assume that spousal maintenance is awarded in every divorce in Chicago, but that is just not true. In Illinois, alimony is not automatic. Instead, the court considers a variety of factors before deciding whether to award spousal maintenance. These considerations typically include things like the length of the marriage, the income and earning capacity of both spouses, the standard of living during the marriage, and each party’s contributions to the marriage, including as a homemaker or parent. Importantly, Chicago judges have discretion, and even if one spouse earns significantly more, that does not always result in an order for maintenance.
Myth #2. If Spousal Maintenance is Awarded in My Case, Payments Will Last Forever
A second common myth among individuals in Chicago, is that once maintenance is awarded, it continues indefinitely. In reality, most spousal maintenance orders in Illinois are temporary. Illinois follows statutory guidelines that help determine the length of maintenance based on the duration of the marriage. Indeed, an award of permanent maintenance in Chicago is rare, and only awarded in limited circumstances.
Myth #3. Only Divorcing Wives Receive Spousal Maintenance, It’s Not for Men
Finally, a third commonly-held myth among those in Chicago is that women are the only ones who typically receive spousal support. This is an outdated idea, and no longer holds true. Under Illinois marriage and divorce laws, the gender of the parties is not a factor in determining spousal maintenance. As such, either spouse can request and potentially receive alimony if they can demonstrate financial need and meet the criteria set by the court.
Getting Legal Help with Your Maintenance Case – Chicago Maintenance Lawyer
If you are in the Chicago area and you need legal help with your Chicago maintenance case, contact the experienced Chicago maintenance lawyers at the law firm Arnoux Shama Standeford, LLC. The experienced Chicago maintenance lawyers at the law firm Arnoux Shama Standeford, LLC are here to help individuals in Chicago with their challenging maintenance issues. Contact Arnoux Sharma Standeford, LLC today and speak with a lawyer about your case now.
