Ensure Fair Alimony Orders
Remember, alimony isn't meant to be a punishment, but a payment to help the other spouse get on their feet.
When their (or your) circumstances change, the alimony payment can change as well. That said, having an experienced family attorney is key to making sure an alimony payment is fair and reasonable.
To figure out how alimony might affect you, read the articles on our website. Better yet, get in contact with us to schedule a consultation.
More about Alimony by State
Frequently Asked Questions
What is alimony?
Alimony is when one party pays to support the other during or after the marriage. Alimony is also called spousal support or maintenance. It usually occurs when one party makes significantly more than the other or when one party was the homemaker. You can use our alimony calculator to see what alimony would be in your case.
How long do you have to be married to get alimony?
The longer the marriage the greater the chance of you getting alimony. It is harder to get alimony in a marriage that was under 10 years and much easier for marriages over 25 years.
What makes you eligible for alimony?
There are many factors the court considers when deciding whether a party will get alimony. Some common factors include each party’s earning capacity, their standard of living, the length of the marriage, and each party’s contribution to the marriage.
Who pays alimony in a divorce?
Many people pay alimony, but it is often a husband who pays alimony. This is certainly not always the case though. A better rule is that the person who makes significantly more than the other party will pay alimony.
Can a wife ask for maintenance without divorce?
If parties get a legal separation, a wife can ask for maintenance. But, if parties do not separate, the court assumes that both parties have access to the money. If parties do not share bank accounts, then each party needs to have the ability to support themselves. If one party makes significantly more than the other in a marriage, the other party can ask them for maintenance.
How long does alimony last?
Alimony usually lasts longer for long-term marriages. For example, in a case where the marriage lasted 30 years, the alimony will likely last indefinitely. Each state has its own calculations though, so it is best to look into your state's laws and statutes.
How do you calculate spousal maintenance?
Spousal maintenance is calculated differently in different states. To get the best estimate, speak with an attorney that works in your state such as one from Sterling Lawyers. Sometimes, even different judges calculate alimony differently, so it’s important to work with someone who knows your local courts.