Is there usually an award of maintenance after a long term marriage in Louisville or Jefferson County? The important time frame in these divorce cases is often established when the underlying marriage passes the 10 year mark. If you are married less than 10 years, the amount and duration of maintenance is often much less than what is awarded in longer term marriages.
Once you cross the 10 year threshold new factors will play a more important role in determining maintenance in a Jefferson County or Louisville divorce case. Unlike child support guidelines in Kentucky, maintenance does not have the same financial calculus or formula established in family law. Maintenance much more flexible and is based upon several “factors” including but not limited to:
- The length of the marriage
- The age and health of both parties
- The ability to gain meaningful employment and earn a living wage
- One party giving up a career to manage the household and raise children
- Supporting the other spouse financially during education or professional licensing
- The present lifestyle of the parties
Maintenance is not mandated by Kentucky law. It is intended to somewhat even the financial playing field between the spouses during and after the process of a divorce. Maintenance is usually not meant to be permanent, however, in some cases it can be until a significant change in the status of the recipient.
While maintenance after a long term marriage is often a contentious issue, the experienced Louisville divorce attorneys at Dodd & Dodd have represented clients in negotiations, mediation and before the courts of Louisville for decades. We protect our client’s interests and work to achieve the best possible outcome.
If you are concerned about maintenance after a long term marriage in Louisville or Jefferson County we invite you to review the recommendations of our clients and contact us or call 502-584-1108 to schedule an appointment.
