Spousal Maintenance or Alimony

Western North Carolina - Spousal Maintenance Attorneys

The financial issues raised in divorce can be especially difficult on spouses. What options does a stay-at-home parent have who has devoted the past 10 years of his or her life to raising the children, so that his or her spouse is free to pursue a lucrative career?

In North Carolina, temporary alimony or spousal maintenance may be granted to the dependent spouse to level the financial playing field. The law is designed to give the dependent spouse time to develop job and career skills, to go back to school or start a business.

Since spousal maintenance, like child support, can be fairly complicated, we recommend you consult with an experienced family law attorney to protect your rights and receive a fair settlement. Here at The Moore Law Office, PLLC, our attorneys have more than 45 years of combined legal experience, much of it focused on divorce and family law. Contact us today for a confidential consultation with an experienced spousal maintenance lawyer.

Jennifer Moore is a board certified specialist in family law. She has been certified by the North Carolina State Bar as a specialist in family law. She is one of only 204 lawyers in North Carolina who are certified as family law specialists. For more information regarding family law specialists, please visit the North Carolina Bar website.

Qualifying for Spousal Support

Our attorneys examine the facts of each case. Here are some of the factors used in determining spousal maintenance:

• Income of each spouse
• Ages and health of each spouse
• The length of the marriage
• Living expenses for each spouse
• Living standard enjoyed during the marriage
• Additional financial supports and income from other sources

In determining the amount of spousal support, the court will decide who is the supporting spouse and who is the dependent spouse. The amount of alimony is ultimately in the hands of the judge, who typically starts with State guidelines.

Spousal support may be granted for a longer period of time if the dependent spouse or a child of the family is disabled. The lawyers at our firm are equally experienced in representing supporting or dependent spouses. Alimony may have tax implications for the supporting spouse, which we can help you explore.

Contact Us for Help with Modifications of Orders

We can also help spouses seek modification of spousal support should your personal circumstances change. For a confidential consultation with a qualified separation support lawyer, contact The Moore Law Office, PLLC, in Asheville, North Carolina.