Alimony in Nevada


There is no formula to determine alimony in Nevada, which is good news or bad news depending on who you are in a divorce, as the judge has wide ranging power to dictate the terms of alimony in Nevada.  The factors used to calculate the level of alimony in other states will be taken into consideration by the judge when issuing the appropriate level of alimony, but do not expect a scientific or precise judgment based on mathematical calculations.

Types of alimony

Temporary alimony might be awarded if one spouse is dependent on the other spouse entirely and will need arrangements to live away from the other spouse while the divorce is ongoing.  Temporary alimony is not used in the eventual calculation of alimony, is irrespective of fault and ends as soon as the divorce settlement concludes.

Rehabilitive alimony describes payments made to the dependent spouse to pursue education or job training.  This increases the earning potential of that spouse, ended dependency on the payer and helps with the potential income of the receiver.  Alimony in Nevada under this category is tax deductible.  This type of alimony ends as soon as the spouse enters the workforce and can substantially deal with independence from the divorced spouse

Periodic alimony is the most common form of alimony that involves regular payments to the other spouse.  The judge will impose certain conditions on this alimony and it may be subject to review if there are changes to the financial well-being of either spouse.  You may or may not have the chance to pay off this alimony in a lump sum after a divorce settlement, but that arrangement is not subject to review and is an obligation to pay.

How is alimony calculated in Nevada?

Considerations are made for the income of the spouse paying the alimony when compared to the receiver of the payments.  The standard of living must be substantially the same as it was during the marriage.  The judge may or may not consider the following factors:
- Income
- Property and assists of the other spouse
- Costs of education and job training
- Presence of a child support arrangement
- Medical needs of the spouse
- Length of the marriage
- Potential assets and income from investment 

Nonpayment of alimony

Those that fail to meet alimony obligations and particularly child support obligations will have property confiscated to pay the debts.  Licenses are revoked by the state and if the employer of the spouse can be located, then a wage garnishment arrangement will go into effect.  The enforcement actions vary widely depending on the type of alimony in Nevada, but all deadbeat punishments will involve collection arrangements.

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