Spousal Support

Spousal support, also referred to as spousal maintenance or alimony, is likely an issue whenever there is a significant difference in personal income between the two spouses.

What Is Spousal Support Used For?

Spousal support is designed to provide the lower-income spouse with money for living expenses regardless of gender. The existence, amount and duration of monthly spousal support payments will be defined either by the court or a settlement agreement.

How Are Spousal Payment Amounts Calculated?

Courts make determinations regarding spousal support after considering many factors such as:

• the length of the marriage,
• the standard of living during the marriage,
• as well as the age,
• health,
• earning capacity
• and job histories of both individuals.

In many cases, it’s imperative to negotiate or litigate to achieve a minimization or termination of this sometimes oppressive obligation.

Men generally have greater exposure to Spousal Support (97-98% of payers are men) and this issue can have a profound impact on how they live day-to-day and plan for retirement.

Related Reading: An In-Depth Look At How Spousal Support Works In Washington State
Related Reading: How Major Purchases Can Affect Your Divorce