Spousal Support Sets Your Financial Foundation For Post-Divorce Life
Spousal support, also called alimony or spousal maintenance, can be part of a divorce agreement, but it is not necessary in all cases.
The attorneys at Russo, Rosalina & Co., LPA, help clients address spousal support issues in marriage dissolution and divorce. We will work to achieve your goals whether you are the person who will be paying or receiving spousal support.
Not Everyone Receives Spousal Support
When there is a disparity of income between the two parties, spousal support is intended to bring the lower-earning party closer to the level of income he or she was accustomed to during the marriage. It is not intended to equalize the income of the two parties. It can be awarded temporarily or permanently.
In uncontested divorces, both parties must agree upon the issue of spousal support for the dissolution to move forward. Our lawyers are experienced negotiators who can help you develop a plan that is acceptable to both parties.
In divorce cases, spousal support is not automatically granted to the lower-earning spouse but is awarded on a case-by-case basis. Judges have discretion regarding whether, for how long and how much one spouse will pay the other spousal support.
The judge will consider a long list of factors when determining spousal support. These include:
- Length of the marriage
- Income
- Age
- Earning ability
- Standard of living
- Education
- Retirement benefits
- How child custody affects earning potential
- Whether one spouse paid the educational expenses of the other
Let Us Protect Your Rights Regarding Alimony
We will evaluate your specific situation in light of these factors. Then we will develop a strategy for achieving a fair resolution to the spousal support issue.
To discuss your specific situation, please use our online contact form or call the Cleveland spousal support lawyers at Russo, Rosalina & Co., LPA. We have served northeast Ohio since 1978.