Alimony & Spousal Maintenance
Knowledgeable, strategic advocacy for fair spousal support outcomes — whether you're seeking maintenance or contesting it.
Spousal maintenance — commonly called alimony — is one of the most contested issues in Kentucky divorce cases. Whether you need support to maintain your standard of living or you're concerned about an unfair maintenance award, Kershaw & Baumgardner provides the informed, strategic representation you need.
How Kentucky Determines Spousal Maintenance
Kentucky courts award maintenance when a spouse lacks sufficient property to provide for their reasonable needs and either cannot support themselves through employment or is the custodian of a child whose circumstances make employment inappropriate.
If maintenance is warranted, the court considers the standard of living established during the marriage, the duration of the marriage, each spouse's financial resources, the time needed to acquire education or training, and the ability of the paying spouse to meet their own needs while paying maintenance.
Types of Maintenance in Kentucky
Temporary maintenance during divorce proceedings
Rehabilitative maintenance (while a spouse gains skills/education)
Long-term or permanent maintenance (in long marriages or disability)
Lump-sum maintenance payments
Reimbursement maintenance
Modifying or Terminating Maintenance
Maintenance orders can be modified if there is a substantial and continuing change in circumstances — such as a significant change in income, remarriage, or cohabitation. We handle both modification requests and enforcement actions.
Our Approach
Whether you're seeking maintenance or opposing it, we build a thorough, evidence-based case. We work with financial experts when needed to document income, earning capacity, and the marital standard of living — the key factors in any maintenance determination.
Frequently Asked Questions
Key Considerations
Kentucky calls it 'maintenance' not alimony
No automatic entitlement — must qualify
Duration and amount vary by circumstances
Can be temporary or long-term
Modifiable if circumstances change
Terminates on remarriage or cohabitation
Related Practice Areas
Get the Outcome You Deserve
Spousal maintenance decisions have lasting financial consequences. We make sure you're fully informed and effectively represented.
Confidential consultations · No obligation · Serving Lexington & Central Kentucky