Dear Attorneys,
How can I avoid paying too much alimony? I’m going through a divorce and I’m worried that I’ll be stuck paying more than I can actually afford.
Sincerely,
Budget Bob
Dear Bob,
This is a very common concern, especially for higher-earning spouses facing the prospect of long-term spousal support. The good news is that the amount and duration of alimony in Connecticut are based on multiple factors—not just your income.
Here are some tips to help protect yourself from paying more alimony than is fair:
📌 1. Be Transparent About Your Finances
Make sure your financial affidavit is complete and accurate. Overreporting income or underreporting expenses can result in a higher alimony obligation than necessary. It’s critical to present a clear picture of your actual, reasonable monthly budget.
⚖️ 2. Understand What the Court Considers
Connecticut courts look at several statutory factors when deciding alimony, including, but not necessarily limited to:
- The length of the marriage
- Each party’s age, health, and earning capacity
- The standard of living during the marriage
- Contributions to the marriage (financial and non-financial)
- Education, employability, and whether one spouse sacrificed career advancement or assisted in the other spouse’s career advancement
Alimony is meant to be fair, not punitive. If your spouse has the ability to work or earn income, that will be factored into the decision.
📉 3. Negotiate an Agreement Instead of Litigating
If possible, reach an agreement through negotiation or mediation. This often results in more flexible, realistic alimony terms and avoids the unpredictability of a court ruling.
You may also negotiate a non-modifiable alimony agreement, which means the amount and duration are locked in, or even an up front buyout option. However, there can be pros and cons to both and thus, should be approached with caution and strategic legal guidance.
⏱️ 4. Argue for a Defined Term
Connecticut does not lightly order lifetime alimony anymore. You can ask for time-limited or rehabilitative alimony, especially if your spouse has the ability to become self-supporting within a few years.
🔄 5. Watch for Double Dipping
If your spouse receives a portion of your assets (such as business equity or retirement), ensure those same assets aren’t also used to justify a higher alimony award. This is known as double dipping, and courts generally try to avoid it—but only if you raise the issue.
At Wolf & Shore Law Group, we work with clients every day to ensure their alimony obligations are reasonable and fair—not just for today, but for the long term. If you’re facing a potential alimony award, let us help you negotiate or litigate from a position of strength
Alimony shouldn’t break you. Let us help protect your future. The most important step you can take now is to consult with an experienced family law attorney who can help you understand your rights and develop a plan. At Wolf & Shore Law Group, we offer confidential consultations and help clients just like you navigate this process every day.
You deserve to feel financially safe and supported—even in the middle of a divorce. Ever argue with a woman? Let Wolf & Shore Law Group go to work for you. Call us at 203.745.3151 or email us at info@wolfandshorelaw.com.
Very Truly Yours,
Wolf & Shore Law Group
*The situations represented in our Dear Attorneys column are entirely fictional and any resemblance to a specific case is unintentional. We cannot, and will not, offer legal advice to anyone who is not a client. However, if you do have questions or concerns, you should contact an attorney at your convenience.
