How Does Alimony Work in Hawaii?

Alimony is a crucial aspect of divorce settlements. It is the financial support that one spouse pays to the other after separation or divorce. In Hawaii, alimony is determined based on several factors, including the length of the marriage, the income of both parties and the standard of living during the marriage.

If you're going through a divorce or separation in Hawaii, understanding how alimony works is essential. In this blog post, we'll provide you with a comprehensive guide to alimony in Hawaii, including the different types of alimony, how it's calculated, and how to modify it.

Types of Alimony in Hawaii

In Hawaii, there are four types of alimony:

Temporary alimony: This is the financial support paid during the divorce proceedings.
Rehabilitative alimony: This is the financial support paid to help the receiving spouse become self-sufficient.
Permanent alimony: This is the financial support paid for an indefinite period, usually when the marriage lasted for a long time.
Reimbursement alimony: This is the financial support paid to the receiving spouse for specific expenses incurred during the marriage, such as education or training.

How Alimony Is Calculated in Hawaii

The court considers several factors when calculating alimony in Hawaii, including:

The length of the marriage
The income and earning capacity of both parties
The standard of living during the marriage
The age and health of both parties
The financial needs and obligations of both parties
The ability of the paying spouse to pay alimony
The tax consequences of alimony payments

Modifying Alimony in Hawaii

Alimony can be modified in Hawaii if there is a significant change in circumstances, such as:

The receiving spouse's income increases
The paying spouse's income decreases
The receiving spouse remarries
The receiving spouse cohabitates with another person
The paying spouse retires

Seek Legal Counsel Today!

Understanding how alimony works in Hawaii is crucial for anyone going through a divorce or separation. Knowing the different types of alimony, how it's calculated, and how to modify it can help you make informed decisions during divorce proceedings. If you need help with alimony or any other family law matter, Smith & Sturdivant, LLLC is here to help. Contact us today for a consultation.