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Can an unmarried partner in Minnesota receive spousal maintenance after 8 years?

Can an unmarried partner in Minnesota receive spousal maintenance after 8 years?

Q: Does living with someone affect alimony?

Yes, in Minnesota, living with someone can affect alimony. If a former spouse cohabits with a new partner, it may be seen as a change in circumstances that can lead to a modification or termination of alimony payments. Courts may evaluate the financial benefits of the new living arrangement when determining alimony obligations.

Full question:

In Minnesota, if your were with someone for 8 years and never married, can they get spousal maintenance (money to maintain their lives)?

Category: Divorce
Subcategory: Alimony
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Minnesota

Answer:

In Minnesota, a contract between two people living together out of wedlock can address property and financial matters. For such a contract to be enforceable, it must meet two conditions: it must be written and signed by both parties, and enforcement must be sought after the relationship ends (Minn. Stat. § 513.075).

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

What disqualifies you from alimony in Minnesota?

In Minnesota, several factors can disqualify a person from receiving alimony. These include a significant change in circumstances, such as the recipient's financial independence or cohabitation with a new partner. Additionally, if the marriage was short-lived or if the requesting spouse was at fault for the divorce, it may impact their eligibility for alimony. Each case is unique, and courts consider various factors when making decisions about alimony.

Does living with someone affect alimony?

Do I lose alimony if I live with someone?

In Minnesota, living with someone can potentially lead to the loss of alimony. If the court finds that the new living arrangement improves the recipient's financial situation, it may modify or terminate alimony payments. It's important to communicate any changes in living situations to the court to ensure compliance with alimony agreements.

Is there a way around paying alimony?

In Minnesota, there are limited ways to avoid paying alimony. One option is to demonstrate a significant change in circumstances, such as a loss of income or the recipient's financial independence. Additionally, if the recipient remarries or cohabits with a new partner, it may impact alimony obligations. However, any attempts to avoid payment should be discussed with a legal professional to ensure compliance with the law.

What qualifies a spouse for alimony in Minnesota?

In Minnesota, several factors qualify a spouse for alimony. These include the length of the marriage, the financial needs of the requesting spouse, the ability of the other spouse to pay, and the standard of living established during the marriage. Courts also consider contributions to the marriage, including homemaking and childcare, when determining alimony eligibility.

What states do not enforce alimony?

While most states have provisions for alimony, some states have limited or no alimony enforcement. For example, states like Maryland and Texas have made significant reforms to alimony laws, making it less common. However, it's important to consult local laws, as alimony regulations can vary widely by state and may change over time.