According to the Michigan Division for Vital Records & Health Statistics, there were 20,812 divorces in 2022. A divorce often involves awarding spousal support, formerly known as alimony. This financial support aims to help a lower-earning or non-earning spouse maintain a reasonable standard of living after a divorce.
If you are going through a divorce in Michigan, understanding the different types of spousal support available is important.
Temporary support
Temporary support, or “pendente lite” support, assists the lower-earning spouse during the divorce process. It aims to provide financial assistance until the finalization of the divorce. This type of support is common when one spouse financially depends on the other and needs immediate assistance.
Rehabilitative support
Rehabilitative support helps a spouse become self-sufficient. It is suitable when one spouse needs time and resources to gain job skills or education to enter the workforce. The duration of this support typically corresponds to the time needed for the recipient to become financially independent.
Permanent support
Permanent support is less common and usually applies to long-term marriages where one spouse has been out of the workforce for an extended period and is unlikely to achieve financial independence. Age and health also influence the decision to award permanent support.
Lump-sum support
Sometimes, the court awards a lump-sum payment instead of ongoing spousal support. This one-time payment can act as a substitute for other property or assets during the divorce settlement.
Knowing your options helps you effectively plan for your post-divorce life. Remember, every divorce is unique, and the type of spousal support awarded will vary based on individual circumstances.