Legal help in understanding alimony in New York State

On Behalf of | Apr 6, 2017 | Alimony

New York State couples who are divorcing will have a litany of issues that must be settled, not the least of which is alimony. Alternatively referred to as spousal support, this is a difficult matter in many instances as there can be disagreements as to whether a spouse pays, how much will be paid and other factors. While it is not customary for a former spouse to have to pay a massive percentage of their assets to the other spouse, there are still concerns that must be addressed when a couple gets a divorce and the amount paid and received is determined.

Spousal support is essentially payments that one former spouse is paying the other. It can be for an indefinite period or for a defined period. The idea behind it is so the spouse that does not earn as much will be provided with financial support until they are able to support themselves. Many factors will go into which parent will pay and how much.

In New York, guidelines are in place as a basis for what will be paid. Taken into consideration is the income of both parties, the education levels, the ability to earn a living, if there are children as part of the marriage, how long they were married, and how the lifestyle of the supported spouse can be maintained. The best-case scenario is that the agreement will be fair to both sides and neither will feel as if they are being placed in a poor position. That is not always possible. Because of that, it is important to have legal help.

When a couple decides to get a divorce, it is imperative to have a grasp on everything that will come up. One factor is spousal support. Understanding the legal obligation

related to this and how to negotiate it and handle it should not be undertaken without an attorney. Speaking to a lawyer is key for any matter related to divorce and is the first call that a person whose marriage is ending should make.

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