Lawyers Providing Guidance In Alimony Matters
Alimony is a complex and often contentious issue that may create significant challenges in a divorce. If you are involved in a divorce and you or your spouse may seek alimony, it is critical that you retain a knowledgeable family law attorney to ensure the protection of your rights.
You can find the quality legal representation you require at Lancaster and St. Louis, PLLC. To schedule a consultation with a family lawyer at our firm, contact our law office in Concord, North Carolina.
Alimony And Post-Separation Support In North Carolina
You and your spouse may negotiate an agreement concerning alimony. If you are unable to reach an agreement, it becomes a matter for the court.
North Carolina alimony laws grant judges considerable discretion. Courts have discretion to grant or deny alimony and to fashion an alimony order in an amount and for a duration it determines appropriate. In addition, courts may award temporary alimony during a divorce, which is referred to as post-separation support.
Alimony claims are evaluated in a two-step process in North Carolina. First the spouse seeking alimony must prove to the court’s satisfaction that he or she is a dependent spouse. The court will consider a variety of factors, including the income of the spouses and any disability of the spouse who is seeking alimony that impacts his or her ability to provide for basic needs. Second, the court will take into account the issue of marital fault. The spouse seeking alimony does not have to prove that his or her spouse engaged in marital misconduct. However, infidelity will bar the dependent spouse from receiving alimony.
Protect Your Rights
Given the significant discretion that courts have to determine how to resolve alimony disputes, it is critical that you retain a skilled divorce lawyer who can negotiate a favorable agreement on your behalf or make a compelling case on your behalf at trial. You can rely on Lancaster and St. Louis for the strong advocacy you require.
Schedule A Consultation At Our Firm
For advice and representation regarding your alimony matter, contact Lancaster and St. Louis by calling 704-743-4204. We serve clients in the Concord, Cabarrus County and other surrounding communities.