Men often hesitate when it comes to asking for spousal support or alimony. A 2010 North American census stated that approximately 12,000 out of 400,000 alimony recipients are men.
This number may come out as a bit of a shock since more women are becoming the breadwinners of their families, with half of the workforce in the U.S. females.
It seems like some men are still embarrassed to be financially dependent on a woman. If you are in need of spousal support from your previous wife, you can consult your lawyer regarding eligibility for alimony.
Alimony has been negatively perceived in society due to its bad reputation in the media and in movies. However, the purpose of alimony is to balance the economic scale. This scale becomes imbalanced when an individual stepped down and sacrificed for his or her spouse.
The said spouse might have sacrificed their career in order to raise the children while the other is climbing up the career ladder.
Alimony is a financial security blanket that allows you to live your life in economic stability. You need to drop the notion that alimony “lessens your manliness.” We live in a time where gender equality is now widespread and people are now outspoken with regards to this issue.
I have no legal jurisdiction to practice law in the state where you reside but, I can give you some general counsel regarding this question.
Alimony, or commonly known as spousal support, is not mandatory in a divorce case. The jurisdiction in each state varies although courts usually decide if a spouse is entitled to alimony.
In Florida, where I can exercise my legal practice, the court will analyze various factors when alimony is being requested. The jury will check first the financial ability of the paying spouse.
Afterward, they will check the financial resources of the requesting spouse. Then his or her educational background, age, length of the marriage, and the ability to find employment. His or her physical and mental health will also be taken into account.
Court-ordered alimony is mandatory and scheduled appropriately. However, alimony can also be agreed between the separating spouse.