Addressing the Issue of Spousal Maintenance
Spousal maintenance, also sometimes called alimony or spousal support, is an issue that arises in some, but not all, divorce cases. In order for it to become an issue, one party must have a need for it and the other must have the ability to pay. The factors that need to be considered include:
- Marital standard of living
- Length of marriage
- Financial needs
- Ability to earn an income
At the Law Offices of Richard D. Goff, we determine whether spousal maintenance will be a factor in a divorce case. If it will be, we will take great care to build a legal strategy that is designed to meet the financial needs of our client.
Contact us today to discuss your spousal maintenance case. We provide representation to clients in Minneapolis and the surrounding communities
Calculating Spousal Support
While child support is based on a very clear set of guidelines, determinations of spousal maintenance are not based on a set formula, per se. Essentially, the goal is to see that, following the divorce, both spouses are able to remain as close to the marital standard of living as possible.
This is often difficult since the available income must now be used to support two households instead of one. Unfortunately, in most cases, both parties will have no choice but to make adjustments, but it is our goal for them to be able to live as similarly as possible going forward.
The Relationship Between Spousal Maintenance and Other Aspects of Divorce
Spousal maintenance is closely related to other aspects of the divorce, particularly property division. In some cases, a settlement may include compromise where one party receives more property and less maintenance, or vice versa. Our lawyer remains involved in all negotiations to ensure that our clients make choices that are right for them.
Our law firm brings more than 45 years of experience to every spousal maintenance case we handle. Contact us today. Our attorney provides representation to clients in Minnesota.
