Franklin & Nashville Spousal Support and Alimony Lawyers
The dissolution of a marriage can be challenging and often creates financial uncertainty. Both spouses are entering a new phase of their lives. Spousal support, commonly known as alimony, is one way courts help spouses move forward after divorce.
Garrett Talley & Thorington has served Franklin and the Greater Nashville Area since 1973. With our extensive experience in family law, we have handled many unique circumstances in divorce cases. Our lawyers recognize that every couple is different, and we work diligently to achieve solutions tailored to each person’s situation. You can rely on us for personalized guidance and professional support.
Call (629) 245-2933 or contact us online today to schedule a consultation with our Franklin & Nashville alimony attorneys.
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How Alimony & Spousal Support Proceedings Work in Franklin
When you pursue alimony or spousal support in Franklin, your case will usually move through the Chancery or Circuit Court, depending on where you file. The court reviews petitions, listens to both parties, and evaluates all evidence. Before a final decision, both spouses submit financial affidavits disclosing income, property, and debts. This process ensures the court considers the full financial picture of each side.
Judges here often encourage mediation to resolve issues, giving families greater control over support terms while keeping costs predictable. When negotiations do not succeed, the judge will decide based on statutory factors and the evidence present at the hearing.
Modifying or Terminating Alimony in Tennessee
Alimony awards are not always permanent. If circumstances change—such as a significant change in income, job loss, or remarriage—the court may review a request to change or end existing support. In Franklin and greater Williamson County, either party may file a motion to modify or terminate alimony if a substantial and material change affects either spouse’s financial situation.
The courts review each request carefully, requiring thorough documentation and often scheduling a hearing for both sides to present their case. These protections balance the needs of both spouses and make sure that alimony orders stay fair long after the original divorce.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does the Alimony Process Take in Franklin?
The length of an alimony case depends on several factors, including the complexity of financial records, the willingness of each side to negotiate, and court scheduling in Williamson County. Simple agreements reached in mediation can be resolved in a matter of weeks, while contested cases that go to trial may take several months or more.
What Happens If My Former Spouse Stops Paying Alimony?
If your former spouse fails to pay court-ordered alimony, you may file a motion to enforce the order in your local court. Judges can use measures such as income withholding, fines, or—if necessary—contempt proceedings to secure payment. Consistent legal follow-up helps protect your interests under local enforcement rules.
Are Alimony Payments Taxable in Tennessee?
Federal tax law changed in 2019 so that alimony payments are not tax-deductible for the paying spouse and are not considered taxable income for the recipient. Tennessee does not impose state income tax on alimony, so tax implications mostly depend on your federal situation.
Types of Alimony Under Tennessee Law
Tennessee recognizes four main types of alimony, each designed to address the financial needs of divorcing spouses:
Alimony in Futuro (Periodic Alimony)
This long-term spousal support provides ongoing, periodic payments to a financially disadvantaged spouse. It aims to maintain the recipient’s standard of living, mirroring what they experienced during the marriage. Courts typically reserve this for situations where the spouse cannot achieve financial parity due to age, health, or lack of earning capacity.
For instance, a former spouse who dedicated years to raising children and managing the household may receive alimony in futuro if limited career experience or skills make re-entering the workforce difficult.
Alimony in Solido (Lump-Sum Alimony)
This form of support involves a one-time monetary award set in advance and not subject to modification. Lump-sum alimony can address specific financial needs, such as covering debts, legal fees, or obligations resulting from divorce.
For example, a spouse may be awarded alimony in solido to secure housing or to settle shared debts. The amount and terms are determined upfront, providing certainty for both spouses.
Rehabilitative Alimony
Rehabilitative alimony gives temporary support to help a spouse reach financial independence. Courts intend this support to provide the means for a spouse to pursue education or training.
If one spouse paused their career to support the other's professional development, rehabilitative alimony may provide funds to resume education or complete certification for re-employment. Support continues for the period necessary for the spouse to establish self-sufficiency.
Transitional Alimony
Transitional alimony is short-term support awarded to help a spouse adjust financially after divorce. Courts often apply this when neither long-term nor rehabilitative support is needed.
A spouse leaving a dual-income household to manage expenses alone, for example, may receive transitional alimony to ease the adjustment during a set period.
Local courts follow Tennessee Code Annotated Section 36-5-121 when awarding and modifying alimony. This statute outlines the definitions, factors, and procedures for the different types of spousal support, which judges apply in cases throughout Williamson and Davidson Counties. Each type of support serves a specific purpose, and local courts review every detail in the parties’ financial and personal backgrounds before making a determination. For families in Franklin and nearby areas, understanding these categories—and how judges typically approach them—can help you set practical expectations as you navigate the process.
Our Core Values
Guiding Every Case with Integrity and Purpose
At Garrett Talley & Thorington, 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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Proven Legal Experience You Can TrustWith decades of combined experience, our attorneys deliver reliable, results-driven representation in even the most complex cases.
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Compassionate Counsel When It Matters MostWe understand the emotional weight of family law matters and provide empathetic guidance tailored to your unique circumstances.