What Kind of Fresh Start Could Alimony Provide for You?

During a divorce, it is natural to mourn the loss of the future you hoped to share with your partner when you got married. As you move through the process, an important part of your recovery is focusing on yourself. During your divorce proceedings, settlements or orders issued by the judge can help ensure you receive what you need to move forward. Depending on the situation, spousal support, or alimony, may be included. The following outlines how these payments can help you make a fresh start.  

Your Rights to Alimony

Alimony can help you maintain your standard of living in the aftermath of a divorce, reducing the financial impacts you suffer as a result of your breakup. Under the Illinois Statutes, you may be entitled to spousal support based on the length of your marriage and factors such as: 

• The amount of income you and your spouse make;
• The amount of pre-marital property each of you owns;
• Whether your spouse engaged in marital misconduct or took actions that depleted assets during your marriage;
• If you sacrificed your own education or career for the sake of your spouse or any children you have together. 

Discuss your rights to alimony with our Chicago divorce attorney before dismissing the idea or signing any documents surrendering your rights. 

How Spousal Support can Help You Recover After a Divorce

Learning to live on your own after a divorce can prove challenging. Psychology Today advises taking time for yourself, letting go of the past, and exploring new goals and what makes you happy can help you make a successful adjustment. By providing a measure of financial security, alimony payments can help you recover and move forward, as well. Ways in which these payments can provide a fresh start after divorce include: 

• Pursuing an education: Spousal support can allow you to finish a degree or obtain the training needed to start a new career. 
• Starting your own business: Many people dream of being their own boss. Alimony can help make this dream a reality. 
• Reestablishing yourself in your career: If you have been out of the workforce or put your career second to your marriage, now is the time to re-establish yourself. 
• Provide for children: If you have small children, alimony can help provide time and resources to care for them. 

Schedule a Consultation With Our Chicago Alimony Attorneys

Alimony can prove crucial in recovering after a divorce. Before dismissing the idea or surrendering your rights, speak to our legal team at the Women’s Divorce and Family Law Group first. Call or contact our Chicago divorce attorneys online today to schedule a consultation.