Bowie, MD Alimony Attorneys

Aggressive Maryland Lawyers Addressing Issues Related to Spousal Support in Bowie

Most couples commingle their finances during their marriage so they can work together to support a single household. One spouse may earn more income than the other for various reasons. During and after a divorce, the other spouse may request spousal support so that they will be able to avoid financial difficulties and prevent a decrease in their living standards. This is known as alimony. Maryland laws allow for different kinds of alimony, which is also called spousal support. Whether you need assistance collecting a fair amount of support from your ex or making sure the alimony you pay will be appropriate, you can trust the Law Office of Kari H. Fawcett to handle your issue effectively.

Law Office of Kari H. Fawcett is widely known for our exceptional thoroughness and aggressive representation in divorce cases. Combined, our attorneys have handled family law matters for over 50 years. We know the right questions to ask, and we apply your answers to develop a strategy that will meet your unique needs. No legalese is spoken here, only plain English. Our clients become like family, and we invite you to join us. Reach out now to request your preferred consultation time.

Seeking Spousal Support/Alimony in Maryland

It is not easy to pay your rent or mortgage, car payment, utilities, grocery bills, and many other necessary expenses with limited or no income during or after your divorce. While married, your budget may have relied more heavily or totally on your spouse's income. You may be able to receive spousal support that can supplement your income or provide a way for you to pay your bills. Maryland allows three types of spousal support:

• Temporary Alimony: This support is paid during your divorce, but it ends with your final divorce decree.
• Rehabilitative Alimony: After your divorce, you may qualify to receive this type of support for a specific time period. For example, spousal support may be paid while you are training for a new occupation that will allow you to be self-supporting. If you remarry, alimony ends automatically.
• Indefinite Alimony: To receive indefinite support, you must have evidence that either you are unable to become self-sufficient or there is a glaring inequity between your spouse's and your income. Indefinite alimony can be modified, but it also terminates upon remarriage.

Your attorney from the Law Office of Kari H. Fawcett will examine your circumstances carefully, taking various factors, such as child custody arrangements, into consideration. After reviewing, we can help you determine the most advantageous type of support for your needs. Similarly, if your spouse is seeking alimony, but you disagree on the requested amount or whether they are eligible for support, we will evaluate your situation and gather evidence to support your arguments.

Whichever side of the spousal support fence you are on, we will work diligently to serve your best interests.

Factors to Consider in Maryland Alimony Cases

Your unique circumstances need to be addressed when making or responding to a request for spousal support, including:

• Whether either spouse has regular fluctuations in income, such as bonuses, frequent overtime or shortened shifts, contract work, or self-employment
• The tax implications for the spousal support you might pay or receive
• Realistic budgeting to determine both spouses' financial needs and obligations
• Healthcare concerns
• Estimated future income for each spouse
• The length of your marriage
• Both spouses' ages and mental conditions
• Both spouses' financial resources
• The standard of living you enjoyed while married

There is not an "average amount" of spousal support. It must be calculated carefully according to your exact circumstances. If those circumstances change after your divorce, such as a significant change in income for either spouse, we can assist with requests for a post-decree modification.

If your ex fails to pay court-ordered alimony, we know how to enforce your agreement. If you are obligated to pay spousal support but cannot do so, do not risk being charged with contempt. Instead, call us so we can assist you in seeking a modification.

Contact Our Bowie, Maryland Spousal Support Lawyers

Financial matters during divorce can cause many arguments, but depending on your situation, alimony may be justified. Families across Maryland rely on the Law Office of Kari H. Fawcett for our unwavering support and dedication to our clients. Call 301-262-5500 or contact us online to speak with one of our skilled attorneys.