Spousal Maintenance/Alimony Questions?
Spousal maintenance, more commonly known as alimony, refers to the financial support one spouse provides to another after a divorce. Whether a Court will award support and how much support depends on a variety of factors. At Moen, Sheehan, Meyer, Ltd, we place primary importance on finding a diplomatic solution that both sides agree is fair in order to minimize the strain on the family. However, if one spouse is playing hardball, we are prepared to fight for you in Court. Our family law attorneys have over 50 years’ experience; we understand the caution and care necessary to ensure that your divorce proceeds in a way that is fair for you.
Spousal maintenance contributes to the enduring harmony of a family after a divorce by ensuring that each spouse has the support they need to continue in a comfortable and productive lifestyle, as well as care for dependent members of the family. The payments received by the other spouse are to pay for their health, maintenance, education and welfare.
What Does the Court Look For?
The Court must make the final decision regarding whether your divorce will involve spousal maintenance. The Court takes into account the length of the marriage, the ability of both parties to work, the age of the parties, prior standard of living, health conditions, ability to pay, and the past conduct or behavior of the parties.
Currently, Wisconsin has no set guidelines for determining the amount of spousal support awarded. However, they do take into consideration the budget of the payee spouse and often will make a decision that will enable the recipient spouse to continue a similar standard of living that they had in the marriage. Our attorneys can survey your situation to determine the likelihood of your receiving or having to pay support, as well as the estimated amount.
Spousal maintenance can continue for varying lengths of time. The Court will decide the appropriate length of time based on factors, such as the duration of the marriage, the ages of the parties, their health, earning capabilities and contributions to the marital estate, and the like. Support often ends at the death or remarriage of the recipient spouse, but the Court can set a certain length of time at their discretion as well.
How Moen, Sheehan, Meyer, Ltd Helps
We attempt to settle cases out of court as often as possible when it is in your best interest. This is often preferable for both parties, as they know their situation better than a court would and can reach a settlement in a more personal, civil way and often more to their satisfaction. However, when it is not in your best interest, our divorce attorneys prepare to go to Court and aggressively fight for what is yours.
Divorce is a sensitive issue, with repercussions on the entire family. Our family lawyers are mindful of this while negotiating your divorce and always encourage the most peaceful solutions possible. Contact us today for help in your alimony disputes.
