The Court of Special Appeals of Maryland recently decided the case of Reynolds v Reynolds. This case provides an excellent view of alimony, a subject that arises often in divorce cases. Both Mr. and Mrs. Reynolds were graduates of Yale University Law School in the early 80’s. Both parties began working, but shortly thereafter Mrs. Reynolds became pregnant. This pregnancy led to some health issues, and the parties decided that Mrs. Reynolds would stop working and raise the children, who would eventually number three.
The parties were able to do this as Mr. Reynolds worked long hours and was ultimately making close to $1,000,000 a year. As these things tend to happen, the parties grew apart, and eventually decided to get divorced. The first major issue was whether this would be a case for alimony or not.
Alimony in Maryland is one of two types, either rehabilitative or indefinite. Rehabilitative alimony is given to a spouse for a short period of time, in order for this spouse to get the necessary education or training so that he/she can make a living alone. Indefinite alimony lasts forever and is only appropriate when the difference in financial resources between the two are extreme.
The Court found in this case that this was in fact the situation. While the wife at one point could have been a good earner based on her education, this was no longer the case. While she could be expected to earn $30,000 to $40,000 per year, her husband could be expected to earn close to a million. The court therefore ordered indefinite alimony of over $13,000 per month.
If you are seeking a divorce, and feel you are entitled to alimony, or if your spouse is unfairly claiming alimony, contact the experienced divorce lawyers in Hunt Valley at Huesman, Jones and Miles. Call (443) 589-0150 or submit an online inquiry form today to schedule your free confidential consultation.
