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Spousal Maintenence (Alimony)

Spousal Maintenance is awarded when a party cannot meet their reasonable monthly expenses with their own income and the marital property awarded to them. The standard of living the parties had during the marriage is taken into account. It is generally the intent of the law to keep parties relatively equal in their lifestyles, taking into account the length of the marriage, the ability of each person to support themselves, and the money available to support both parties.

Spousal Maintenance can be permanent or temporary, based on various factors including length of marriage, age of parties, the amount of the marital estate and each party’s income and earning capacity.

Typically maintenance occurs in cases where one spouse delayed entry into the workforce, delayed their education or cannot earn sufficient income because they choose to be the homemaker. It can also apply to spouses that are disabled, mentally or physically ill, or unable to earn sufficient monies for reasons outside their control.

Maintenance can be permanent, it can be temporary, it can be used to build a new life plan, or it can be financial support for a party who cannot support themselves and make ends meet.

If Spousal Maintenance is an issue for you, call Ballou Law Partners at 612-321-9800.