Unlike some other states where individuals may receive alimony following a divorce or legal separation to support their livelihood or maintain a certain standard of living, Indiana does not have provisions for ‘alimony.' Instead, certain conditions or circumstances may lead to the awarding of spousal maintenance. This blog will explore the limited maintenance options that exist in Indiana and the circumstances surrounding same.
Spousal maintenance, referred to in Indiana, can be granted as a temporary measure while the divorce proceedings are ongoing. This often occurs when one spouse is not employed or is solely responsible for household expenses without the financial support of the other spouse. Temporary spousal maintenance typically ceases once the divorce is finalized.
Rehabilitative maintenance is another form of temporary support, lasting for a maximum of three years. It is intended to enable the recipient to acquire the necessary education or training to re-enter the workforce. For instance, a stay-at-home parent seeking education for future employment may request rehabilitative maintenance during their schooling.
In cases where a parent serves as the primary caregiver for a child with a disability, preventing them from working, spousal maintenance may be awarded to provide ongoing support during this caregiving period.
Lastly, spousal maintenance may be granted to an ex-spouse with a physical or mental disability hindering their ability to support themselves financially. Some disabilities may be temporary and improve over time, while others may require ongoing support.
If you anticipate spousal maintenance becoming an issue in your divorce proceedings, whether you are seeking it or the other party is requesting it, seeking guidance from a knowledgeable attorney can be beneficial and can potentially save you a substantial amount of money. If you are on the other side of this argument, should obtain the funds you deserve. This post serves to provide insights into the types of spousal maintenance available in Indiana and is not intended as legal advice. Ciyou & Dixon, P.C. offers legal services across the state and serves every county in Indiana.
