Spousal Support
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Spousal Support May Factor Into Your Divorce

The terms “alimony” and “spousal support” both refer to the money allowance paid by one spouse to another as ordered by the court. Alimony does not apply to every divorce situation. Divorce proceedings determine whether alimony is required on a case-by-case basis. Either party may be ordered to pay spousal support. Alimony laws in Michigan and court decisions set the criteria for determining whether alimony is applicable to your case.

Understanding Spousal Support

The following factors are considered, and the family court judge will weigh some factors more than others in each specific case:

  • The past relations and conduct of each spouse
  • The length of the marriage
  • The ability of each spouse to work
  • The source of and amount of property awarded to each spouse
  • The age of each spouse
  • The ability of each spouse to pay alimony
  • The present situation of each spouse
  • The needs of each spouse
  • The health of each spouse
  • The prior standard of living of each spouse
  • Contributions of the parties to the joint estate
  • A party’s fault in causing the divorce
  • The effect of cohabitation on a party’s financial status
  • General principles of equity

Contact Us For Experienced Spousal Support Advocacy

It is important that you have a divorce attorney who understands the complexities of Michigan alimony laws, and who knows the inclinations of the local trial judges. At Gordon & Hess, PLC, our family law attorneys are experienced and can evaluate, explain and help advocate for your best outcome. We will give you straight answers and reasonable expectations in accordance with Michigan law and the particular Judge that is assigned your case. We have represented clients facing alimony issues in Grand Rapids and throughout West Michigan. We can help you. Email us or call 616-369-7452 for a free confidential consultation to discuss the your alimony issue.