The end of a marriage represents a time of change and transition when people are put in a position where they must move beyond the life they have become accustomed to. For some spouses who put their career or career aspirations on hold during their marriage, a divorce can mean that they have to enter the workplace to establish financial independence. Nevada’s alimony laws envision this and can provide these spouses with resources to help in that transition.
Alimony Considerations
Courts can order a spouse to pay alimony to a dependent spouse following their divorce. The legislature very specifically considered that there are spouses who chose to be homemakers and care for their family as well as spouses who gave up their careers to support their families. There is an acknowledgment that these careers and opportunities were put aside by the dependent spouse, and allowed the other spouse to focus on advancing their career and earning money for the family.
When deciding the amount and duration of an alimony award, some of the relevant factors that courts must consider include:
- The financial condition of each spouse;
- The income, earning capacity, age, and health of each spouse;
- The career before the marriage of the spouse who would receive the alimony;
- The existence of specialized education or training or the level of marketable skills attained by each spouse during the marriage;
- The contribution of either spouse as homemaker.
Rehabilitative Alimony
Also, a court can specifically order a separate type of temporary alimony to allow the dependent spouse to obtain training or education relating to a job, career, or profession. Courts have broad discretion when deciding whether to award this “rehabilitative” alimony. In addition to evidence a court decides is “relevant”, it must also consider whether the supporting spouse obtained greater training or education during the marriage and whether the dependent spouse provided any financial support while the supporting spouse obtained that training or education.
Viloria, Oliphant, Oster & Aman L.L.P., Family Law Representation
If you are considering a divorce, you need an attorney to help you navigate your way forward. At Viloria, Oliphant, Oster & Aman, L.L.P., our family law attorneys are smart, experienced professionals who focus on our clients’ needs. We offer compassionate, thoughtful guidance and tirelessly pursue the best outcome for each client. Call Viloria, Oliphant, Oster & Aman L.L.P. today at (775) 227-2280 to schedule a case consultation or contact our office through our website.