Rochester Alimony Support Attorney

Monroe County Spousal Maintenance Lawyer

Almost everyone who goes through a divorce must make major financial adjustments. In addition to providing for the equitable distribution of property, your divorce decree must address the payment of child support, if minor children are involved, and spousal maintenance if any is sought by either party.

The Law Offices of Alan L. Offen provides valuable legal counsel in protecting your financial future. Call today to schedule your consultation with our Rochester alimony support attorney. We can be reached locally at (585) 200-3903 or toll free at (866) 869-3164.

Understanding Spousal Maintenance

Spousal maintenance (sometimes referred to as alimony) is payment to the spouse, generally for rehabilitation. The amount and duration of the payment is subject to approval by the court and is based on the economic factors involved. Obviously, the longer the marriage and the higher the income, the greater the probability of maintenance. Any physical impairment of the person receiving maintenance can also affect the amount and duration of maintenance payments.

The 2010 New York divorce laws include official guidelines regarding temporary maintenance. Attorney Alan L. Offen has a comprehensive understanding of the new laws and the laws' impact on your divorce decree.

The courts will consider 20 factors when determining temporary maintenance. These factors include the following:

• The standard of living the parties established during the marriage
• The age and health of the parties
• The earning capacity of the parties
• The need of one party to incur education expenses
• The wasteful dissipation of marital property
• The care of any children that inhibit a party's earning capacity
• The need to pay for additional expenses for the children
• The distribution of marital property
• The nonfinancial contributions of the payee spouse

The final maintenance order is not guideline-driven. Rather, it is handled on a case-by-case basis. Additional significant factors must be taken into consideration by the courts. For example, the final maintenance award will consider the "existence and duration of a premarital joint household or a pre-divorce separate household."

You can read the new legislation regarding temporary and final maintenance in its entirety by following the link on our Resources page. You can also talk to the Law Offices of Alan L. Offen. We are happy to discuss these changes with you.

Schedule Your Consultation for Information and Counsel You Can Trust

Many people ultimately regret compromises they make under the stress of divorce. We are dedicated to providing all the information you need to make decisions you can live with, ensuring your best interests are protected. For this level of commitment and personal attention to your case, please contact us today.