Alimony & Child Support

Alimony, also known as spousal support, is a payment from one spouse to the other to provide financial assistance during or after a divorce. It is intended to help the lower-earning spouse maintain a similar standard of living to that enjoyed during the marriage.

The court considers various factors when determining alimony, including the duration of the marriage, the standard of living during the marriage, each spouse’s financial resources and needs, and the ability of the paying spouse to provide support.

There are several types of alimony, including temporary alimony, rehabilitative alimony, and permanent alimony. Temporary alimony is paid during the divorce process, rehabilitative alimony is for a specified period to allow the recipient to become self-sufficient, and permanent alimony is paid indefinitely.

Child support is a payment from one parent to the other to help cover the costs of raising a child. It is intended to ensure that the child's basic needs, such as housing, food, clothing, education, and healthcare, are met.

Child support is calculated based on a formula that considers both parents’ incomes, the number of children, and the amount of time each parent spends with the children. Other factors, such as medical expenses and childcare costs, may also be considered.

Yes, alimony and child support can be modified if there is a significant change in circumstances, such as a change in income, employment status, or the needs of the child. The court must approve any modifications.

If your ex-spouse fails to pay alimony or child support, you can take legal action to enforce the court order. This may include wage garnishment, seizing assets, or other enforcement measures.

While it is not legally required to have a lawyer, having legal representation can be highly beneficial. A lawyer can provide expert advice, protect your rights, and help you navigate the complexities of alimony and child support.