Is it time for alimony reform in Alabama?

For quite some time, alimony has been included in divorce settlement as a means to help balance some financial inequities in the wake of divorce. If one spouse earns significantly more than the other, the one who has the higher income may be required to make monthly payments indefinitely. Some have pointed out that the way alimony is currently structured in most states is based on family dynamics that are no longer the norm. This is why people throughout the country have pushed for family law reforms, which often includes putting an end to lifetime alimony as a standard practice. As this conversation continues, many may be wondering whether or not changes should come to Alabama state law. As of March 2012, Massachusetts’ alimony laws changed, reflecting a number of reforms. Although the law has been in effect for less than two years, proponents of change say that this particular … Continue reading Is it time for alimony reform in Alabama?

Alabama’s top court overturns decades-old family law precedent

Parents who are thinking about college tuition know that it’s a major financial burden, and it’s only expected to become more significant as time passes. The idea of providing children with financial support for tuition may seem even more uncertain when parents are filing for divorce. Alabama parents who are considering a request for educational support during divorce may be interested in a recent court decision that could alter their plans. Turning over a precedent set in 1989, the Alabama Supreme Court ruled that family law judges cannot order parents to make educational support payments for children over the age of 19. Unlike most states, the age of majority is 19 in Alabama. Customarily, child support payments made to the custodial parents would end when children reach this age. However, under the old legal precedent, judges had the authority to order parents to contribute to college tuition for as long … Continue reading Alabama’s top court overturns decades-old family law precedent