Spousal Support & Alimony Lawyers

Spousal Support & Alimony Lawyers in the United States

Spousal support disputes rank among the most contested issues in divorce proceedings. Whether you're seeking support or defending against an unreasonable claim, the outcome can shape your financial future for years. A qualified attorney can make the difference between a fair arrangement and one that leaves you struggling.

What Spousal Support & Alimony Law Covers

Alimony refers to court-ordered payments from one spouse to another during or after a divorce. It exists to prevent unfair economic consequences when one spouse earned significantly more or when the other sacrificed career opportunities during the marriage.

This area of law covers several types of support. Temporary alimony provides income during divorce proceedings. Rehabilitative alimony helps a lower-earning spouse gain education or job training. Permanent alimony may be awarded in long-term marriages where one spouse cannot become self-supporting. Some states also recognize reimbursement alimony, which compensates a spouse who funded the other's education or professional development.

When to Hire a Spousal Support Lawyer

• Your spouse earns significantly more than you and you need financial support after divorce
• You're facing an alimony request that seems disproportionate to your income or the length of your marriage
• Your ex-spouse has filed to modify or terminate an existing support order
• You suspect your spouse is hiding income or assets to reduce their support obligation
• You need to enforce a support order that your ex-spouse has stopped paying

How the Spousal Support Process Works

Either spouse can request alimony during divorce proceedings. The court examines both parties' financial situations through mandatory disclosure of income, assets, and debts. Roughly 95% of divorce cases settle before trial, and alimony terms are often negotiated as part of that settlement.

If the parties can't agree, a judge will decide. The court issues a formal order specifying payment amounts, frequency, and duration. Orders can later be modified if either party experiences a significant change in circumstances, such as job loss or retirement.

How Alimony Awards Are Calculated

• Length of the marriage — longer marriages generally result in longer or larger support awards
• Income disparity — courts compare each spouse's current earnings and earning capacity
• The standard of living established during the marriage
• Each spouse's age, health, and ability to work
• Contributions as a homemaker or to the other spouse's career advancement
• Whether the receiving spouse sacrificed education or employment opportunities during the marriage

Some states use specific formulas to calculate temporary support. Others give judges broad discretion. The variation across jurisdictions means your location directly affects what you can expect.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does alimony last?

Duration depends on your state's laws and the specifics of your case. Short marriages of under ten years often result in time-limited support. Marriages lasting 20 years or more may lead to indefinite awards, though many states are moving away from permanent alimony altogether.

Can alimony be changed after the divorce is final?

Yes, in most states either party can petition for modification based on a substantial change in circumstances. Common triggers include involuntary job loss, serious illness, or the receiving spouse's cohabitation with a new partner. However, if your divorce agreement specifically states that alimony is non-modifiable, the court will typically honor that term.