Many individuals seeking a divorce are unaware as to what alimony is or how it is determined. Alimony or spousal support needs to be taken into consideration early on so you can plan for it financially. For an understanding of how alimony can play into your divorce, consult with the Michigan divorce attorneys in the FasTrack Divorce® system as soon as you can.
More times than not, in Michigan, alimony is referred to as spousal support. Men have just as much a chance of being the recipient of support as women do. In addition, although there is no minimum number of years a couple needs to be married for one party to receive support, it is rarely awarded in a short term marriage.
How is spousal support determined in Michigan?
Michigan judges take several factors into consideration when determining how much support to award to either spouse.
These factors can include:
- The past relations and conduct of the parties
- Length of the marriage
- Ability of the parties to work
- Source and amount of the property awarded to the parties
- Age of both parties
- Abilities of each to pay alimony
- Present situations
- Needs of the parties
- Health
- Prior standard of living of both spouses
- General principles of equity
There is no specific mathematical formula to determine whether or not spousal support should be awarded or how much is to be awarded. Neither is there a set length of time support ought to be awarded. Instead, the judge regards the unique factors of the case and assigns an amount to the case.
Don't Be Caught by Surprise with Spousal Support
Even if spousal support is awarded to one party, it can be modified. This means that if one party experiences a change in circumstances the support award may change to reflect this. A skilled Michigan divorce attorney can discuss your legal rights and inform you in ways of protecting you and your family's future.
