Helping You Determine The Appropriate Amount Of Alimony
Alimony is not awarded in every divorce. A set of factors is analyzed on a case-by-case basis. Whether you are a man or a woman and whether you will be paying support or receiving support, we will work to obtain a fair determination on your behalf.
For more than 35 years, our Howell and Brighton lawyers have sought the best possible outcomes for our clients in spousal support cases. While we are trial attorneys, Gormley Law Offices, PLC, does not litigate merely for the sake of litigating. We obtain a clear understanding of your situation, determine what the court is likely to do, and make an informed decision on how to proceed in your divorce case. Call 517-219-9301 to arrange a free consultation. We serve clients throughout Brighton & Howell and in nearby communities.
A Fair Determination Of Spousal Support Is Possible
As attorneys, we understand the generally accepted formula for determining spousal support. However, Michigan judges can differ greatly on their rulings. Therefore, it is to your benefit to obtain experienced legal guidance from an alimony lawyer that can ensure your position is maximized. Spousal support can be awarded on a temporary or permanent basis.
The factors that are included in determining support include:
- Ages and health of the parties
- Length of marriage
- Education levels of the parties
- Earning capacities of the parties
- Ability of the obligated party to pay
Our attorneys are highly adept at calculating each party’s actual income. To do this, we take actions such as finding hidden assets and valuing businesses. As skilled negotiators, we are adept at maximizing our clients’ positions toward favorable outcomes. Additionally, we have significant knowledge of the local judges and what each judge is likely to do in each type of situation should the case go to trial.
How Is Alimony Calculated In Michigan?
In Michigan, alimony, also known as spousal support, is determined based on several factors rather than a fixed formula. When spouses cannot agree on the terms of alimony, the court will consider the following factors to make a decision:
- The duration of the marriage
- Each party’s age, health and ability to work
- Standard of living enjoyed during the marriage
- Whether one party supported the other
- A party’s ability to pay support
- The needs of each party
- The ability of a dependent spouse to be self-supporting
These factors allow the court to tailor alimony decisions to the specific circumstances of each case, delivering a fair and equitable outcome.
What Disqualifies You From Alimony In Michigan?
No one is explicitly disqualified from receiving alimony in Michigan. Instead, it is a matter of whether one spouse is entitled to alimony payments. Key considerations include the financial dependence of one spouse upon the other and the dependent spouse’s ongoing financial need and the other spouse’s ability to pay.
The court will evaluate these factors and any other relevant circumstances to determine whether alimony should be awarded and in what amount.
What Is The Difference Between Alimony And Spousal Support?
Alimony and spousal support refer to the regular payments made by one spouse to another after divorce or separation to help with financial support. The terms are used interchangeably.
How Long Do Alimony Payments Last?
In Michigan, the duration of alimony payments can vary widely and may be structured as a single, lump-sum payment made to settle all alimony obligations or periodic (monthly) payments made over a specified duration. Period payments can be
- Temporary: Ending after a certain period or upon specific conditions, such as remarriage or cohabitation of the recipient
- Permanent: Ongoing payments, potentially for the lifetime of the recipient, though this is less common and typically reserved for longer marriages or when justified by the factors considered by the court
The judge will weigh various factors as outlined above to determine the duration and type of alimony payments that best fit the case’s specific circumstances.
Spousal Support Modifications
The amount of spousal support or the duration of spousal support can be modified. Just as with initial determinations, this is handled on a case-by-case basis. Factors that can cause a change include remarriage or change in income.
Talk To An Alimony Attorney Today — For Free
Do you need to speak with an attorney regarding spousal support? To schedule your free consultation, call 517-219-9301. You may also contact our firm online. Our office hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, with weekend and evening hours by appointment.