Divorce is not uncommon, although it is impossible to say that any two divorces between Oneida County residents are alike. The spouses in different marriages make different contributions to the success of their unions, and the ways that couples approach childrearing and financial decisions can look very different as well. As such, whether a person will be required to pay child support or alimony after a divorce is completed will depend on the facts and circumstances of the particular case.
Like child support, alimony is a legal obligation imposed by a court. However, unlike child support, alimony generally does not have to be a long-term commitment. Depending upon a number of factors, such as the former partners’ earning capacities and the standard of living at which they operated during their marriage, alimony can be just enough to get one spouse on his or her feet, or it can be an extended obligation to care for a former spouse.
It is important to recognize that not all divorces will produce alimony or spousal support obligations. However, those that do bind one spouse from each marriage to the financial health of the ex-spouse. Although a person may not want to have anything to do with an ex-spouse after the divorce is completed, failure to pay an alimony obligation can result in penalties against the delinquent payer.
At the law firm of Callanen, Foley & Hobika we attempt to help our clients work through divorce and alimony
questions. Whether our clients believe that they should receive alimony or are questioning whether they should have to pay spousal support, our attorneys work to help answer inquiries. To learn more about the firm’s spousal support and general family law practice, please visit our website on alimony.