Cultural attitudes take a while to catch up with legal changes. Policies that were created decades ago are still hotly debated. We have centuries of ingrained thinking that we must overcome before we can achieve true social change.
This reality often affects people who should be protected by the law. For instance, men still have a hard time receiving alimony in a divorce. This difficulty can come from without or within, depending on the person.
Here are some ways that gender can still, unfortunately, affect an alimony order.
Men Often Have Internal Reluctance
In our society, manhood is still often tied to pride. Many men want to be self-reliant and able to provide for others. We often see men who, although they desperately need spousal support, refuse to take it.
Many men wish to “prove themselves” after a divorce. They want to achieve independence and show the world that they don’t need help from anyone. In some cases, they believe that doing so will help them win back their spouse.
It’s important to remember that you live in a system you didn’t create. Within that system, achieving financial independence can be difficult. While you were married, you may have relied on your spouse’s support. Perhaps they were helping pay for your continued education, or maybe you chose to be a stay-at-home dad.
If you are suddenly cut off from that support, you could quickly become financially destitute. Self-reliance is a noble goal, one that we encourage, but it isn’t going to happen overnight. Don’t allow stubborn pride to bring you lower than necessary, and remember that spousal support rulings are often temporary. There are there to help you achieve that independence you desperately desire.
Society Can Be Judgmental of Men Who Need Support
Financial imbalances between the sexes are still a big deal for many people. Recent studies suggest that when women make more money than men, they can suffer marital problems.
Many family court judges are suspicious of men who need spousal support. They often require more of these men than they do of women. For instance, they may require the man to keep a “job diary.” This document will detail anything related to the man and his job. It will require the man to list all jobs they applied for, any work they were able to secure, on so on.
The conclusion is this: A man may find it more difficult to get the support he needs, even when he is willing to take it.
Get Help from an Experienced Attorney
A good lawyer can help you get past a prejudiced judge’s biases. Their job is to remind the court of the law and advocate your position. They can build a case for why you deserve alimony, and that your gender is irrelevant to the matter. Your attorney may also be able to help curb any unnecessary steps that would block you from getting the help you deserve.
Our firm is here to help with alimony concerns, regardless of whether you are the payer or receiver. If you need assistance, schedule time with one of your lawyers. You can use our online contact form or call us at (702) 904-9898.