Throughout the years, Massachusetts alimony cases have shifted from short-term alimony, to rehabilitative alimony, to permanent alimony pending a modification. While the governing statute, Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 208, Section 34, has remained relatively unchanged, the trends of alimony have evolved and continue to be shaped by each case based on the particular set of facts before the court. 

Our divorce lawyers and family law attorneys have a solid understanding of the alimony theories and can help you prepare your case for consideration. 

In Massachusetts, alimony is not automatically granted and will depend on whether the facts justify such an award. In situations where one spouse’s earnings are significantly greater than the other’s, especially in longer-term marriages, or where one party has health or other problems which limit his or her ability to be economically self-sufficient, the court may order spousal support, either permanently or for a period of years or months.

Clients come to our attorneys with questions about how spousal maintenance is determined and awarded. The issue is complicated by tax considerations, property division, and the potential of both spouses to become self-supporting. 

Sometimes clients think that because the other spouse was “at fault” in the divorce, they deserve support. In Massachusetts, spousal support isn’t always determined by the behavior of either spouse, but by the need of one spouse and the ability of the other to pay it. 

Providing our clients legal assistance in Hampden, Hampton, Franklin and Berkshire counties, MFLG family lawyers are zealous advocates when it comes to both sides of the alimony argument.

 Contact us for a no-obligation consultation in our Springfield office, or call (800) 910-DIVORCE.  Early morning and weekend appointments are also available in Worcester, Dedham, Andover, Plymouth and Cape Cod.