What You Need to Know About Alimony in Illinois

Going through a divorce can put your finances in serious jeopardy, particularly if you relied on your spouse’s income to make ends meet. Depending on the circumstances, you may be entitled to alimony payments. At Women’s Divorce & Family Law Group, our Chicago alimony attorneys explain the different types of alimony awarded and factors that could influence your rights in these proceedings. 

Four Types of Alimony in Illinois Divorce Proceedings

Under the Illinois Statutes, you may be entitled to alimony in your divorce if your income is lower than your spouse’s or you sacrificed your own career or education to help your spouse achieve professional success. Otherwise referred to as spousal maintenance, it is not required in divorce proceedings but can be negotiated with the various parties involved. There are four types of alimony to which you may be entitled: 

• Temporary alimony: This is awarded during divorce proceedings. As it automatically ends once your divorce is final, you will want to discuss future options with your divorce attorney. 
• Fixed-term alimony: As the name implies, this type of alimony is awarded for a fixed period of time that begins once your divorce is finalized. Otherwise referred to as rehabilitative alimony, it can allow you to obtain the education, experience, or skills needed to reenter the workforce. 
• Permanent alimony: Again, as the name implies, this type of alimony is awarded on a more permanent basis. Awarded on an indefinite basis, it is common in long-term marriages lasting 20 years or more, allowing the receiving spouse to continue to enjoy the same standard of living. Despite the name, fixed alimony can end if you are living with someone or remarry, or if there are other significant changes in circumstances.  
• Reviewable alimony: This is akin to indefinite alimony, but the maintenance order is required to be reviewed by the court on a periodic basis. 

Factors That Influence Alimony in Illinois

The length of the marriage will determine your rights regarding alimony and how long it will be awarded. However, there are other factors that need to be considered when requesting alimony through the Cook County Family Court or other jurisdictions in the state. These include: 

• How marital property is divided, which could influence alimony amounts;
• Potential tax ramifications, which could make alimony a less attractive option;
• Whether there are allegations of marital misconduct, which could impact your rights to alimony payments. 

Request a Consultation With Our Chicago Alimony Attorneys

Alimony can play a major role in helping you recover financially from your divorce. To discuss your rights regarding these payments, reach out to Women’s Divorce & Family Law Group. Give us a call or contact our Chicago alimony attorneys online today to request a consultation.