Troy Spousal Support Lawyers
In Michigan, spousal support and alimony refer to the same thing — the financial assistance that one party pays to the other party following divorce for the purposes of health, education and maintaining a standard of living while he or she becomes more self-sufficient. Spousal support is not intended to be a punitive measure, but it can become a source of contention.
The Troy
family law attorneys at Sakis & Sakis, PLC, will protect your rights regarding spousal support, whether you expect to receive it or pay it. Although the court does not follow a formula when setting spousal support, as it does with
child support, it does consider a number of factors. These include:
- The standard of living that both parties enjoyed during the marriage
- The health of both parties
- The ability of each party to pay support
- Each party’s ability to earn an income
- The length of the marriage
- The age of both parties
- Each party’s assets, including property awarded as part of the divorce
- Whether either spouse was at fault for the breakdown of the marriage due to infidelity, substance abuse or other actions
Protecting Your Rights Regarding Spousal Support
Spousal support can be ordered for limited amount of time, or until a certain event occurs. Often, stipulations are written into the settlement agreement identifying circumstances that will trigger the end of spousal support. This could include remarriage by the spouse receiving support or the supported spouse earning a degree.
It’s also possible to
modify an original spousal maintenance agreement if it can be shown that a significant change in circumstances warrants it. This may include the loss of a job or serious health issues that prevent one of the parties from working. However, parties frequently waive their right to modify spousal support in the original agreement.
Securing a sound financial future is a main concern in divorce. Our experienced Troy spousal support lawyers will ensure that your rights are protected in this area. Call 248-649-1160 or use our
online contact form to schedule a free consultation.
