Skilled Woburn Lawyer Advocates for Fair Spousal Support Terms

Reliable Massachusetts attorney capably handles all types of alimony matters

Disputes over alimony are frequently the most difficult part of a divorce proceeding. At Greco Law, PLLC in Woburn, I provide comprehensive representation in spousal support matters to clients throughout the Greater Boston area, including Essex, Middlesex and Suffolk counties. My firm assists clients seeking spousal support as well as those being asked to pay it. With my decades of experience in the legal industry, I can accurately identify the key issues in your case and develop creative strategies to pursue your goals. Whether you want to petition for alimony, challenge an alimony request or have questions about the laws in this area, I will explain your best available legal options and help you make sound decisions.

When will alimony be awarded?

When one spouse earns most or all of the household income, divorce can create financial hardship for the other party. To account for some of the resulting discrepancies, alimony may be awarded when one party has a need and the other can afford to pay. Judges have broad discretion over these awards and evaluate many factors, including:

  • The length of the marriage
  • The age and physical health of each spouse
  • Sources of income
  • Employment prospects

The outcome of each case is fact-specific, and I will look at the totality of your situation to determine the best approach.

What types of alimony are available?

Massachusetts has four types of alimony, which can be structured as short-term, ongoing or lump-sum payments. The circumstances of the divorce, contributions to the marriage and how long the marriage lasted are issues on which courts tend to focus when deciding which of the following four types is appropriate:

  • General term alimony — Awarded when one spouse is financially dependent, with duration of alimony determined by the length of the marriage.
  • Rehabilitative alimony — Awarded to spouses who need financial assistance while they obtain education or training to become self-supporting.
  • Reimbursement alimony —Awarded to compensate a spouse who paid for expenses which directly benefited the other spouse, such as tuition or job training costs.
  • Transitional alimony — Awarded to help a spouse adjust to a new living situation.

Whether you are asking for alimony or would be paying, I will give you open and honest advice on what to expect and fully address your questions and concerns.

Can a spouse avoid alimony?

Outside of not getting married, there is no way to absolutely preclude the possibility of paying alimony. While judges typically have the ultimate say on alimony awards, there are a few situations in which alimony may be suspended, reduced or terminated such as:

  • The recipient spouse remarries
  • The recipient spouse cohabitates with a new partner for at least three months
  • The paying spouse reaches retirement age
  • Either spouse dies

An experienced attorney can develop strategies to account for specific circumstances, and I will work to obtain a favorable outcome in your case.

Contact a proven Massachusetts law firm to schedule an initial consultation

At Greco Law, PLLC, I represent clients throughout the Boston area, including Essex, Middlesex and Suffolk counties, in a wide range of alimony issues. Call 978-806-6922 or contact me online today to schedule a consultation at my Woburn office.