When Is Spousal Support Appropriate?

 

When two people decide to get married, they vow to stick by each other's side for better or worse, richer or poorer, and in sickness and in health. Unfortunately, sometimes things don't always go according to plan, and a couple may choose to get a divorce. When this happens, spousal support may come up during the divorce proceedings. Spousal support, also known as alimony, is a court-ordered financial allowance paid by one spouse to another. In this blog post, we will discuss when spousal support is appropriate.

 

1. Income Disparity

One of the primary reasons spousal support is awarded is income disparity. If one spouse significantly out-earns the other, the court may award spousal support to help the lower-earning spouse maintain their lifestyle after the divorce. Spousal support can be awarded on a temporary or permanent basis, depending on the circumstances.

2. Length of Marriage

The length of the marriage is also a factor when considering spousal support. Typically, if the marriage lasted for a short period, spousal support may not be awarded, unless there are extenuating circumstances, such as one spouse's inability to work. However, if the marriage lasted for a long time, spousal support may be awarded to help the lower-earning spouse maintain their lifestyle and financial well-being.

3. Health and Age

Health and age are also considered when determining spousal support. If one spouse is unable to work due to health issues or age, the court may award spousal support to help them maintain their lifestyle. Additionally, if one spouse gave up their career to care for children or the household, spousal support may be awarded to help them transition back into the workforce.

4. Standard of Living

The standard of living during the marriage is also considered when determining spousal support. If the couple enjoyed a high standard of living during the marriage, the court may award spousal support to help the lower-earning spouse maintain that standard of living after the divorce. The goal of spousal support is to ensure that both parties can continue to live as close to the lifestyle they had during the marriage as possible.

5. Other Factors

There are many other factors that can be considered when determining spousal support, including the earning capacity of each spouse, the financial needs and obligations of each spouse, and the education and training of each spouse. Ultimately, the court will consider all relevant factors and make a decision based on what is fair and equitable in each individual case.

 

Conclusion

Spousal support can be a complex issue during divorce proceedings, and it's important to have an experienced family law attorney on your side. At Ilvento Law, we understand the intricacies of family law practice in Orlando, FL, and we are committed to helping our clients navigate the process with ease. If you are facing a divorce and have questions about spousal support, contact us today for a consultation. We are here to help you achieve the best possible outcome for your future.