In the past few decades, an increasing number of people have decided to live together without being married. These unmarried couples typically do not have the same rights and protections that married couples have. Following this trend, many courts have started to recognize in certain situations that an unmarried person may have a right to get financial support from a former partner after their relationship ends.
What is Palimony?
Palimony is defined as a form of alimony due to a person who was part of a non-married relationship. The term describes the support that one partner may request from the other when the relationship between them ends.
How Does One Get Palimony?
Past decisions have generally held that: - One of the partners has made a promise of support to the other for life
- The couple has lived for a long time (usually greater than 10 years)
- As a condition of receiving support the couple lives in a marriage-type setting
- One partner’s primary objective with living with the other is the promise of lifetime financial support
What are Some of the Differences between Alimony and Palimony?
Despite the law of some states allowing one partner to give financial support to the other when the relationship ends, there are some fundamental differences between alimony and palimony. Some differences between the two are: - That in palimony cases, the amount of money due to one partner is based on breaching a promise or contract made between the partners
- That in palimony cases, a partner can only be awarded money, not property
- That palimony is ordered as a lump sum payment, while alimony is usually awarded as continual, periodic payments
When Can I File a Palimony Lawsuit?
There are no specific guidelines by which a palimony lawsuit should be filed, but a complaint should generally have: - Evidence showing a promise or contract for lifetime financial support
- Sufficient evidence to show that the couple has cohabited together for a long period of time
- A description of what entailed the marriage-type relationship
- Evidence showing that financial support was requested by one party
Do I Need a Lawyer for my Palimony Issue?
Whenever palimony issues are at stake, you should consult with a lawyer. The proper attorney will not only inform you of your rights, but also preserve any possible legal remedies that you may have. |
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