Spousal Support/Alimony

[SapientBliss]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? Hawaii

I've been married to my husband for nearly 3 years, living together for 5. I'm in the process of getting a divorce, papers just got picked up yesterday. My husband told me previously that he was planning on supporting me after the divorce, but for some reason had the check-box titled, "My spouse is NOT entitled to spousal support," checked.

I am unemployed, 22 years old and en-route to transferring back to the mainland from Hawaii. He is a Lieutenant (O3-rank) in the Navy, serving 17 years. I don't have my own checking account nor do I have any savings.

What am I legally entitled to for separation support, and 'maintenance' alimony? And for how long?

 

[CourtClerk]

For a 3 year marriage, you shouldn't be eligible for anything as far as alimony/spousal support. Why, at 22 you are unemployed is beyond me, but you had better change that situation quickly.

If you find a judge that has a little bit of a sympathy bone, you may be able to get 3 months of support out of him... MAYBE, but I sure as well wouldn't count on it, and if I were your STBX, I'd fight it tooth and nail. He has no obligation to support you post divorce.

 

[fozzy2]

Depending on your state's divorce laws you may qualify for an "allowance". This would be support/assistance for a period of time while you re-adjusted to single status. This might include getting a college degree or some job training so you can support yourself. "For some reason" he checked the box for no support? I doubt it was a mistake, regardless of what he may have told you, you need to plan on him trying to dump you without giving you a dime. I would advise, as usual, you talk to a lawyer. In addition, he has to support you until a court rules otherwise, so in the interim he should be giving you something.

 

[TinkerBelleLuvr]

might be able to get some of the BAH allowance that he receives to cover the wife.