Mississippi Alimony/Spousal Support Attorneys
The final step in any divorce settlement is alimony, commonly called "spousal support". An experienced lawyer can help you protect your financial future by coming up with the right alimony plan in the context of your entire divorce settlement.
Shows & Smith Law Firm PLLC and its Jackson alimony and divorce attorneys represent individuals throughout Mississippi who are going through a divorce. We represent parties on both sides of alimony disputes.
When the Mississippi courts changed how they handled the division of marital property in 1994, it also changed the way they determined alimony. Now an equitable distribution state, the Mississippi courts seek to equitably divide the marital assets. If they find that one spouse is still at a significant deficit, even after a fair property settlement, then, and only then, will the court consider alimony.
Types of Alimony
There are three types of alimony arrangements recognized in Mississippi. We can take a look at your situation, and figure out which type of alimony works best for you:
- Lump sum alimony: As one large settlement, lump sum alimony is not modifiable, it is not taxable as income, and it can be paid in installments.
- Periodic alimony: The only type of alimony that can be increased or decreased over time, it is taxed as income to recipient, and is deductible by the payor. It may be forfeited by the receiving spouse for misconduct and terminates upon the death of either party or the remarriage of the receiving spouse.
- Rehabilitative alimony: This type of alimony is paid over a defined period of time in order to help the other party get back on their feet. It is terminated upon the death of either party or by remarriage or cohabitation by the receiving spouse. It is taxable as income to the recipient and deductible by the paying spouse.
Contact a Mississippi Family Law Attorney: Free Consultation
Getting a divorce can be complicated with many factors to consider, but we can help you come up with a plan that works. Shows & Smith Law Firm PLLC helps individuals throughout Mississippi find workable solutions to their family disputes. Contact our divorce and family law office or call 601-326-1199 to schedule a FREE 30 minute divorce consultation.
Most recent publication by attorney Connie M. Smith
