Spousal maintenance (formerly known as “alimony”) is one of the most contentious issues in an Illinois divorce or divorce order modification. The receiving spouse often feels entitled to maintenance, and the paying spouse often feels as though they cannot or should not have to pay someone they are no longer married to.
Illinois law provides specific guidance for how courts determine how much, if any, spousal maintenance should be paid. It also provides for specific circumstances that can exclude a former spouse from receiving more maintenance payments. Read on to learn more about the factors a court considers when deciding spousal maintenance, and how you can contest a request.
How is Spousal Maintenance Decided?
Alimony is not necessarily given to spouses after a divorce. Every circumstance is slightly different, but there are several factors judges consistently consider when deciding on alimony payments. These include, but are not limited to:
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