Spousal Support and Alimony Attorney Metro Detroit

Think of it this way: if you and your spouse both have the security of financial stability after the divorce (at least for a period of time), then that's one less reason for you both to hang on to a marriage that isn't working. And it's one more reason in favor of parting ways and creating independent futures for yourselves. 

When one spouse has been the primary breadwinner during the marriage, the other spouse might find themselves facing critical financial challenges when the marriage is ended. Alimony can be crucial in these situations—it's not just about support; it's about helping that individual be in a constructive place to move forward independently.

The duration of alimony payments in Michigan can vary significantly based on the specifics of each case. There is no one-size-fits-all answer, as the amount, frequency, and length of support depend on individual circumstances, including any agreements reached between you and your spouse. If both parties can come to a mutual understanding regarding the alimony terms, the court will typically honor that agreement as long as it is fair to both sides.

Michigan's alimony system recognizes four primary types of spousal support: temporary, periodic, permanent, and lump sum payments. Judges can order one or a combination of these types. For example, you might receive temporary support while the divorce is pending, followed by permanent support if the situation warrants it. 

Ultimately, the duration of your alimony payments will depend on the agreements you reach, the circumstances of your marriage, and decisions made in court. Having a clear understanding of these factors can help you plan for the future as you navigate this transition. 

There are four types of alimony in Michigan:. 

• Temporary Alimony is intended to cover financial needs until the divorce is finalized and lasts for a specific period.
• Periodic Alimony generally supports a spouse's transition, such as financing education or training to prepare them for the workforce, lasting until the party can find stable employment.
• Permanent Alimony is ordered in long-term marriages where one spouse requires ongoing financial help due to age or lack of career prospects, particularly when there is no prenuptial agreement.
• Lump Sum Payment is less common but may occur when couples choose to divide their assets in total at the time of the divorce rather than through ongoing payments. 

No, alimony and child support are not the same in Michigan, and they serve distinctly different purposes. 

Child support provides for the financial needs of a child, and it is granted whenever there are children involved in a divorce, regardless of the custody arrangement. Even in cases of joint physical custody where parents share equal parenting time, child support is assessed according to the Michigan child support guideline formula, which offers a clear, standardized approach.

On the other hand, alimony, or spousal support, is granted in specific circumstances where it is determined that one spouse requires additional financial assistance, typically in cases where there is a significant income disparity between the parties. 

When considering alimony, the court examines 14 different factors to decide whether it is warranted and to determine the appropriate amount and duration of support, making it a more complex issue compared to child support.

Because alimony can be particularly challenging to navigate, it's often best to consult with an attorney who can provide tailored guidance based on your situation.

The notion that your ex will automatically take half of everything in a divorce is a common misconception. While the court does have the authority to award spousal support to either spouse, the amount and duration of those payments depend entirely on what the court deems "proper and necessary" for the circumstances of your case.

It's important to note that alimony is not guaranteed in every divorce; it often depends on various factors, including income disparities and the length of the marriage. If a judge does order alimony, it will be clearly outlined in the divorce decree, specifying the terms of the payments.

At FasTrack, we facilitate equitable alimony arrangements that set both spouses up for success as they move forward with their lives. We strive to keep things on your terms, with minimal court mandates.

Alimony and asset distribution are both important parts of a divorce agreement, and they can affect each other. 

Even when working with a firm like FasTrack and determining arrangements for an uncontested divorce or separation agreement, a judge will still review your filing and evaluate its fairness to both parties. 

However, working with your spouse and our team to create an equitable plan for distribution that streamlines the divorce approval process to keep things as smooth and fast as possible. 

This means accounting for various factors, such as the length of the marriage, the financial situation of each spouse, and contributions made to the household. Working with our team for asset division will help you meet Michigan's established principles for fair and equitable distribution.