Spousal support in Tennessee aims to provide financial assistance to a economically disadvantaged spouse after a divorce. Eligibility hinges on several factors, including the length of the marriage, each spouse’s earning capacity and contributions to the marital estate, and the circumstances leading to the divorce. For example, a spouse who sacrificed career opportunities to raise children during a long-term marriage may be more likely to receive support than a spouse in a short-term marriage who maintained consistent employment. Different types of support exist, including rehabilitative, transitional, and alimony in futuro (long-term support), each designed to address distinct financial needs.
The purpose of such awards is to ensure a measure of fairness and equity following the dissolution of a marriage. Historically, spousal support often reflected societal expectations about gender roles, with wives typically receiving support. Modern Tennessee law, however, emphasizes a gender-neutral approach, focusing on the financial needs and resources of each individual spouse regardless of gender. Such arrangements can be crucial in preventing significant economic hardship after a divorce, allowing recipients to maintain a reasonable standard of living while transitioning to financial independence.
