Salisbury Alimony Attorney
If you are going through a divorce that may involve court-ordered payment to your former spouse, you can rely on the services of a Salisbury alimony lawyer to help ensure you reach a favorable outcome. Whether you are seeking alimony or want to fight any effort by your spouse to seek alimony, you can protect your rights by having legal representation in Rowan County.
The Salisbury family lawyers at Lancaster and St. Louis, PLLC, recognize the significant impact a spousal support case can have on helping you gain a strong financial footing after a divorce. We listen to our client’s needs and tailor our approach accordingly, keeping you informed and basing our legal strategy on your goals. Our office is known for integrity and professionalism, which is one reason why residents in and around Salisbury trust us for exceptional service and steadfast legal support.
Understanding the Basics About Alimony in Salisbury
Before a Judgment of Absolute Divorce is signed, a judge may want to see that important matters like child custody, property division, and alimony are addressed. Not every case ends with a judge awarding alimony, but both parties have the right to make arguments in favor or against alimony.
Hear From Our Happy Clients
Real feedback from individuals who trusted us with their cases.
At Lancaster and St. Louis, PLLC, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.
-
“Hilary was caring, genuine, extremely professional and knowledgeable. I felt comfortable and confident in her abilities.”- Debbie T.
-
“Hilary helped my sister through her divorce process. She was very patient with her and understanding.”- Stephanni A.
-
“I used Hilary St. Louis for several legal/property matters. Her level of expertise was impeccable.”- Martie C.
-
“Hilary and her paralegal Sam worked with me to resolve a non-traditional family law issue involving child custody and support.”- Amanda K.
-
“Hilary St. Louis and her office are amazing! I've had an attorney in the past who would NOT communicate or explain things to me, nor return my phone calls.”- Anne-Marie C.
-
“She was amazing!!!! She brought my kids home after being in a drug environment.”- Amber S.
-
“First and foremost, Hilary and her team are AMAZING! If you are needing and/or wanting the best family lawyer around this area, this is the firm you definitely need to choose!!”- Kaylee P.
-
“Myself and my family will always be grateful for her office and would HIGHLY without a doubt recommend her to represent you in the best ways you need!”- Jennifer W.
When Is Alimony Awarded in Salisbury, NC?
Ultimately, the main consideration for a judge when awarding alimony is fairness. There is no strict formula that determines whether someone qualifies for or receives alimony.
Factors that may influence a judge’s decision include:
- Duration of the marriage: The length of a marriage can impact the amount of alimony a spouse receives and the length of time they are to receive it.
- Earnings and earning capacity: The income, potential income, and earning capacity of each spouse are often considered.
- Standard of living: The standard of living established during the marriage is considered to ensure that the dependent spouse can maintain a similar lifestyle.
- Age and health: The age and physical and mental health of both spouses are evaluated.
- Contributions to the marriage: Contributions to the marriage, including homemaking and supporting the other’s education and career, are considered.
- Financial needs: The financial needs and obligations of each spouse, including debts, are assessed to determine appropriate alimony.
These are just a few of the considerations made by courts when deciding whether to award alimony, but there are many other factors. Marital misconduct is not typically a consideration when it comes to alimony, but any spouse who engages in infidelity cannot request support.
Alimony is not a forgone conclusion during a divorce, even when one spouse works while the other stays home. If you earned the primary income and your spouse is asking for alimony, your attorney can gather evidence to show that they are capable of supporting themselves after the divorce. If you earn considerably less than your partner, your lawyer can argue that you require financial assistance.
In some cases, the judge may award post-separation support that only lasts for the duration of the post-separation period. Even if alimony is awarded, it is often only ordered for a set period of time. Having an attorney can improve the chances that the courts may side with you on this important matter.
Reach out to discuss your family law concerns in a welcoming environment. You can contact us anytime or visit our office at:
891 Central Drive NW
Concord, NC 28027
Salisbury Alimony Law FAQs
Q: Do Judges Always Award Alimony?
A: Judges award alimony on a case-by-case basis. The primary factor for a judge is whether awarding spousal support would be fair or not. In cases where one spouse is unable to support themselves sufficiently, a judge may order post-separation support or alimony. The length of time for which alimony is awarded is also based on what would be the fairest to both spouses.
Q: Can Husbands Receive Alimony From Wives?
A: Yes. It is increasingly common for a husband to receive alimony from their wife, especially when they earn substantially less than their wives. The husband’s lawyer could argue that not having spousal support would have a detrimental effect on him. North Carolina laws have no preference for gender in these matters.
Q: Does Alimony Last Forever?
A: Alimony does not always last forever. The judge may consider how long the marriage lasted and the earning capacity of the spouse (among other factors) when setting the payment period for alimony. Judges have wide discretion in how long they can award alimony. Long-term alimony may be more appropriate when one spouse is advanced in age or seriously ill and less able to find work.
Q: Can My Attorney Fight a Request for Alimony?
A: Yes. Having an attorney can be a great resource when it comes to fighting your spouse’s request for alimony in Salisbury, NC. In some cases, your spouse may be requesting alimony to test whether a judge will award it, even though your spouse has earning potential. Having strong legal representation can make sure that the court hears your side of the story and your arguments before any decision is made.
