How much should I ask as alimony?

654 votes

Do not decide emotionally or under pressure. Evaluate the settlement practically and legally. a one-time settlement can be considered, but only after checking- Husband’s income, assets, properties, future earning capacity,Child’s future education and marriage expenses,Whether ₹20 lakhs is reasonable compared to your legal entitlement for maintenance/alimony,Because you already handled everything for years, you should negotiate from a position of strength, not fear of court visits.

Advocate Sathish Kumar Meshapam LawRato

613 votes

Do not accept or reject the ₹20 lakhs offer emotionally or under pressure. After 12 years of separation and with you solely maintaining the child and household expenses, your legal rights are substantial and must be evaluated properly before any settlement. You should assess: • Child custody and future educational expenses • Permanent alimony/maintenance • Your financial security and residence rights • Husband’s income, assets and earning capacity • Closure of all pending/future litigation through proper settlement terms A one-time settlement is binding once recorded before Court. Therefore, never rely on oral assurances or emotional reconciliation attempts without legally enforceable written terms. Also, statements like “you will suffer in court otherwise” should not intimidate you. Courts primarily consider the welfare of the child, financial responsibility, and conduct of parties. Before signing anything or attending negotiations alone, get the proposed settlement terms legally scrutinised in detail.

Advocate Pavani Kumari LawRato

551 votes

Madam, please don’t feel pressured just because they are saying ₹20 lakhs is a very big amount. Every case is different. You have spent around 12 years separately and you alone have been taking care of your 11-year-old child, school fees, upbringing and daily responsibilities. The law also considers these aspects seriously. At the same time, court cases can take time and affect mental peace, so it is better to think practically and emotionally for your and your child’s future. Before accepting any settlement, you should clearly understand your husband’s income, properties, financial capacity, and what amount would actually secure your future and the child’s education. If there is genuine scope for reconciliation with respect and responsibility, you may think about it once. Otherwise, if divorce is the final decision, then the settlement should be fair, written properly, and cover permanent alimony, child expenses and future security. Do not take a decision out of fear or emotional pressure. Take it calmly and wisely.

Advocate B. Harish Kumar Goud LawRato