Addressing the Issue of Spousal Maintenance
Spousal maintenance, also known as alimony and spousal support, is an issue that arises in some, but not all, divorces. In order for it to be an issue, there has to be a clear need for it. In order to determine need, there are a variety of factors to be considered, including:
- Marital standard of living
- Length of marriage
- Financial needs
- Ability to earn an income
At the Law Offices of Richard D. Goff, we quickly 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 parts of Minnesota.
Calculating Spousal Support
While child support is based on a very clear set of guidelines, determinations of spousal maintenance are not based on a 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 live below the standard established during the marriage, 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 many cases, a decision will need to be made between receiving more property and less maintenance or vice versa. Our lawyers remain involved in all decisions to see that our clients make choices that are right for them.
Our law firm brings more than 40 years of experience to every spousal maintenance case we handle. Contact us today. Our attorneys provide representation to clients in Minneapolis and the surrounding areas in the State of Minnesota.
