Douglass & Runger - July 2023

The Truth About Alimony

Sazon Grilled Chicken Thighs

Who Receives Spousal Support

Inspired by AmbitiousKitchen.com

Among many other things, marriage is an economic partnership — but not all partnerships are equal. When one half of the couple earns significantly more than the other, the economically disadvantaged spouse faces extra challenges during a divorce. Tennessee aims to rectify this problem with alimony, also known as spousal support. Alimony is far from a guarantee in divorce, but Tennessee has four types that may be awarded during the process. Lump-Sum Alimony or Alimony in Solido typically reflects a larger one-time payment from one spouse to another, while Periodic Alimony refers to ongoing monthly payments for an established period. Transitional Alimony is short-term and helps one spouse adjust to a one-income household. Rehabilitative Alimony lasts while the receiving spouse gets the education or training needed to be economically independent.

This versatile summer chicken recipe is packed with warm flavors to keep your tastebuds on alert. It’s perfect for family BBQ nights or as a protein for meal prepping!

INGREDIENTS • 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs • 2 tbsp olive oil • 1 tsp cumin • 1 tsp ground coriander • 1 tsp turmeric • 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp oregano • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional) • 1/2 tsp salt • Freshly ground black pepper

When determining whether or not alimony is appropriate, Tennessee courts first determine whether or not there is an economically advantaged spouse who is capable of paying alimony and an economically disadvantaged spouse who has a need for alimony. Spousal Support is often appropriate in situations where one spouse works and

DIRECTIONS 1. In a large bowl, add chicken, olive oil, cumin, coriander, turmeric, garlic powder, oregano, cayenne pepper (if desired), salt, and pepper. Toss together to coat chicken; let it marinate for 30 minutes to 1 hour. 2. Preheat grill to 400 F. Grill chicken thighs for 6–8 minutes per side or until fully cooked and an internal thermometer reads 165 F. 3. Transfer cooked chicken to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm, then chop into bite-size pieces to use in salads, tacos, bowls, and more! INSPIRATION “There is no such thing as a perfect parent. So just be a real one.” —Sue Atkins

the other stays home. The reasoning is multifold. First, couples with this arrangement usually base it on give and take — one person earns a paycheck, while the other looks after the children and household. It’s unfair to suddenly leave the unemployed spouse without an income. Furthermore, someone who has been out of the workforce for years is more likely to have limited earning potential and may struggle to pay bills independently. Finally, having a spouse at home to care for personal matters may have improved the working spouse’s market value, and the at-home spouse deserves a share. In some cases, couples may come to an agreement on alimony at mediation. But if the matter goes to Court, a judge will weigh several factors in their decision. While Tennessee does not require a couple to be married for a certain length to award alimony, the longer the relationship, the more likely an alimony order becomes. The Court will also consider the spouses’ respective education and work histories and any disabilities that could limit one’s earning potential. A spouse who receives more assets in divorce may be less likely to receive Alimony and vice versa. Someone who believes they are entitled to Alimony or wants to fight a Spousal Support request has no time to lose. Couples must resolve this matter during the divorce; it cannot be reexamined at a later time. Douglass & Runger has extensive experience with both sides of an Alimony dispute. Call us at 901-388-5805 to discuss the options in your case.

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