Spousal Support
Michigan courts can award maintenance (also referred to as alimony or spousal support) to either spouse in the event of a divorce. Spousal support is intended to provide an adequate post-divorce income for a spouse who was dependent on the other spouse during the marriage.
The court can award any amount of money necessary for the support of the recipient spouse, based on the facts and circumstances at the time the award is granted.
The judge will examine the following before awarding spousal support:
- Length of the marriage
- Conduct of the parties during the marriage
- Age and health of the parties
- Occupations and incomes of the parties
- Sources of income
- Vocational skills and employability of the parties
- Assets and debts of the parties
- Any special needs of the parties
- The opportunity of the parties to acquire future income and assets
In Michigan, spousal support may be limited as to the amount to be paid and the length of time the spousal support will last (non-modifiable spousal support.) Spousal support may also be awarded for an indefinite period of time. The amount of money paid, and the duration of the spousal support payments may change with either party demonstrating to the court that there has been a change in circumstances to warrant a change in the amount of payments or the duration of payments (modifiable spousal support.)
Whether to award spousal support can be the most difficult decision in the divorce process because it affects the livelihoods of both spouses. If you are going through a divorce where support is an issue, contact Twiss and Twiss. Our team of skilled attorneys specializes in spousal support cases. We will develop a legal strategy to win your case and fight the financial limitations that spousal support often presents.
