What You Need to Know About Rehabilitative Spousal Support in Illinois 

 Posted on March 13, 2024 in Family Law

Navigating the world of divorce can be daunting, especially for those who are financially dependent on their spouses and have a hard time imagining how they will be able to support themselves after divorce. One such form of spousal maintenance, sometimes referred to as rehabilitative maintenance, is especially important to be aware of. 

Rehabilitative spousal support, or alimony, is like a helping hand for a spouse who needs assistance getting on their feet financially post-divorce. If you believe spousal support will be part of your divorce, talk to your attorney for help understanding the ins and outs of spousal support in Illinois and what you need to do to get started.

What is Rehabilitative Alimony?

To determine whether a spouse is eligible for rehabilitative support in Illinois, the court will consider factors such as:

• The income and earning potential of each spouse

• The duration of the marriage

• The standard of living established during the marriage

• The needs of each spouse

Rehabilitative alimony is common in cases where one spouse worked while the other stayed home to care for children. It may also be awarded if one spouse was abusive and prevented the other spouse from earning her own money. 

It is important to provide detailed information and documentation to support your case for rehabilitative maintenance if you plan on asking for it. 

Duration and Amount 

How long and how much rehabilitative spousal maintenance is awarded in Illinois is determined based on the same factors it court uses when deciding whether rehabilitative support is appropriate in the first place. The court will also consider efforts made by the receiving spouse to become self-sufficient within a reasonable period.

Modification and Termination

Rehabilitative spousal maintenance in Illinois may be changed or terminated under certain circumstances. For example, if the spouse receiving the alimony gets remarried or moves in with a partner, the maintenance will be terminated. Additionally, if there is a considerable change in either spouse’s financial situation, a modification of the maintenance order may be requested.

Contact Our Geneva, IL Spousal Support Attorney

It is also important to remember that you do not need to become a lawyer overnight to ensure you can understand alimony rules and go through the divorce process. Getting help from an attorney who understands the law is the best way to ensure you can pursue a favorable outcome for your case. Contact the highly skilled Kane County, IL spousal support lawyers with Serrano Hanson for help with your divorce, including spousal support. Call 630-844-8781 for a private consultation today.