Franklin & Nashville Spousal Support and Alimony Lawyers
The dissolution of a marriage can be difficult and bring about financial uncertainty. Both spouses are entering a new period of their lives. Spousal support, also known colloquially as “alimony,” is one possible means that courts can use to help the spouses move forward to the next phase of their lives.
Cheatham, Palermo & Garrett has served Franklin and the Greater Nashville Area since 1973. With our extensive experience in family law, we’ve seen a lot of different circumstances in divorce cases. Our lawyers know that each couple is different, and we work hard to get solutions that are right for each person’s unique situation. With us, you can count on personalized compassion and professional guidance.
Experienced Spousal Support Lawyers You Can Trust
We believe that our job starts with listening. The only way to develop a personalized approach for every client is to truly listen to them, hear them, and then think creatively about how the law can work in their best interests. We’re more than just another law firm—we’re a part of the community here in the Franklin area. We want to help you get through this uncertain period of your life and on to a better future.
Call (629) 245-2933 or contact us online today to schedule a consultation.
If we’ve earned your trust, we’d be honored if you left us a 5-star review. Your feedback helps others in our community find reliable legal support—and it means the world to our team.
The Factors Determining Alimony
A Tennessee family court typically weighs several different factors to determine what type of spousal support will be awarded, and in what amount:
- Earning capacity and financial resources. The court evaluates the supported spouse’s ability to meet their expenses independently and the paying spouse’s ability to provide financial support.
- Duration of the marriage. This plays a critical role in alimony decisions. Long-term marriages often result in higher or longer-lasting awards, as the financially dependent spouse may have sacrificed career growth or financial independence.
- Earning potential. Courts assess whether the supported spouse requires additional training or education to regain financial independence and the time and resources necessary to achieve this.
- Age and health. A spouse’s age and physical or mental health can affect their ability to work or support themselves. Older spouses or those with medical conditions may receive higher or prolonged support.
- Standard of living during the marriage. The economically disadvantaged spouse has the right to enjoy the same standard of living they had while married. At the very least, any decrease in standards should be shared equally by the spouses.
- Parenting responsibilities. This is especially applicable when one spouse is responsible for most of the child-rearing or caretaking, making it more challenging to maintain full-time employment.
- Contributions to the marriage. The court evaluates non-financial contributions, including any role as homemaker, caretaker, or supporter of the other spouse’s career development.
- Marital misconduct or fault. Tennessee is a fault-based divorce state, so misconduct such as infidelity or abandonment can impact alimony awards. While fault isn’t the sole determinant, it can influence the court.
By considering these factors comprehensively, Tennessee courts strive to craft spousal support agreements that reflect fairness and the unique circumstances of the divorcing spouses.
Types of Alimony Under Tennessee Law
Tennessee recognizes four main types of alimony, each serving a unique purpose in addressing the financial needs of divorcing spouses…
Alimony in Futuro (Periodic Alimony)
This is long-term spousal support that provides ongoing, periodic payments to a financially disadvantaged spouse. It is intended to maintain the recipient’s standard of living, mirroring what they experienced during the marriage. It is typically reserved for cases where the economically disadvantaged spouse cannot achieve financial parity due to age, health, or lack of earning capacity.
For example, a former spouse who dedicated their entire marriage to raising children and managing the household may receive alimony in futuro because their skills and experience limit their career prospects.
Alimony in Solido (Lump-Sum Alimony)
This involves a one-time monetary award that is fixed and not subject to modification. Lump-sum alimony can cover specific financial needs, such as paying off debts, legal fees, or other obligations arising from the divorce.
For instance, a spouse may receive alimony in solido to secure housing or settle outstanding joint credit card bills. Since the amount and terms are determined upfront, this type of support often provides finality and predictability for both parties.
Rehabilitative Alimony
Rehabilitative alimony is temporary support designed to help a spouse achieve financial independence. It is intended to provide the means for a spouse to pursue education or vocational training.
For example, if one spouse put their career on hold to support the other’s career advancement, rehabilitative alimony may be awarded to enable them to resume their education or complete a certification program necessary for re-employment. The support continues for a specific duration, one deemed long enough for the recipient to ramp up and sustain themselves financially.
Transitional Alimony
Transitional alimony is short-term support awarded to assist a spouse in adjusting financially to the post-divorce lifestyle. It is often appropriate in cases where neither long-term support nor rehabilitative efforts are necessary.
For example, a spouse transitioning out of a dual-income household to managing living expenses alone may receive transitional alimony to ease that adjustment over a defined period.
Each of the four types of alimony reflects the state of Tennessee’s commitment to equity, balancing the financial disparities that often arise from the dissolution of a marriage.
Call (629) 245-2933 today.
Our Core Values
Guiding Every Case with Integrity and Purpose
At Cheatham, Palermo & Garrett, our values aren’t just words—they’re the foundation of how we serve our clients. From honest communication to strategic advocacy, these principles shape every decision we make and every relationship we build.
-
Dedicated to Protecting Your FutureWhether you're facing divorce, custody, or another family law matter, we’re here to secure the best outcome for you and your family.
-
Personalized Advocacy for Every ClientNo two families are the same. We take the time to understand your story and craft a legal approach that protects what matters most to you.
-
Clear Communication. Strategic Guidance.We keep you informed every step of the way, offering honest advice and a well-defined legal strategy built around your goals.
-
Proven Legal Experience You Can TrustWith decades of combined experience, our attorneys deliver reliable, results-driven representation in even the most complex cases.
-
Compassionate Counsel When It Matters MostWe understand the emotional weight of family law matters and provide empathetic guidance tailored to your unique circumstances.