Getting a divorce is a big change, often causing a significant shift in your finances. To ensure an equitable distribution of marital assets, state law allows you and your spouse to agree on a spousal support arrangement. While alimony calculation tools may be available online, there is no substitute for legal advice from a knowledgeable family law attorney.
A Murray spousal support lawyer from Full Circle Family Law is ready to help you navigate these complex waters. Our team understands the ups and downs that come with ending a marriage and takes a personalized approach to navigating the legal details of your separation. We can help demystify the divorce process and negotiate a fair spousal support arrangement.
When Do Courts Award Alimony?
Spousal support is not a legal requirement for divorce but is available to help people transition financially from married life to independent living. While the court decides whether to award spousal support, alimony may not be appropriate in every situation. Furthermore, if the spouses have a valid prenuptial or postnuptial agreement that waives the right to spousal support, the judge will likely honor that arrangement.
There are several situations in which the family court may decide spousal support makes sense. For example, the judge may award alimony to a spouse who stayed home and cared for the children while the other spouse worked. Similarly, if the marriage was long, or one of the spouses sacrificed employment opportunities to support their partner or children from home, the judge may be more inclined to award alimony.
Negotiating spousal support agreements can be challenging, especially when the divorce is not amicable. An alimony lawyer in Murray could serve as a guide during this time, advocating for their clients’ best interests. Our attorneys have a deep understanding of the family law surrounding when and how the court awards spousal support.
How Does the Court Decide How Much Alimony to Give?
According to Utah Code § 30-3-5.10, the court considers several factors when deciding how much spousal support is appropriate in a specific divorce case, including:
- The financial condition and needs of the party requesting for alimony
- The length of the marriage
- Each spouse’s income and ability to earn a sustainable income
- Whether there are minor children
- The contribution of each spouse to the marriage (financially and in terms of caregiving)
The goal of alimony is typically to help a spouse support themself and enjoy an equal standard of living post-divorce. Spouses can modify an alimony arrangement after their divorce if their situations change because of a significant pay raise or decrease. A Murray attorney could review the details surrounding a divorce to calculate how much spousal support is fair and reasonable for all involved parties.
Call an Alimony Attorney in Murray for Guidance
Spousal support can help you or your spouse transition from joint finances to living on an individual income. While you can negotiate an alimony agreement by yourself, hiring a trained family law attorney could help you build a solid demonstration of your interests and concerns.
The decisions made in the divorce process can have a significant impact on your life in the future. You may have heard of alimony, but a dedicated lawyer at Full Circle Family Law understands the nuances of state laws governing these payments. Contact a Murray spousal support lawyer today to schedule an appointment.