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Helping With Either Side Of A Spousal Support Request

When a marriage ends, the couple will need to determine how to divide their marital property. Part of these discussions includes the potential for spousal support. If you are requesting support or looking to defeat your spouse’s request for compensation, it is essential that you work with an experienced attorney to develop the strategy appropriate for your case.

At WN Law, in Grand Rapids, we have handled many complex divorces which have questions regarding spousal support. Our attorney, Renee Wagenaar, will work with you to understand what you hope to accomplish. Together, we prepare a sound plan that helps you with either obtaining or contesting spousal support.

How Support Awards Are Determined

Michigan law does not require that spousal support be awarded in each divorce. Each case needs to be carefully analyzed to determine if one of the parties should receive support due to the divorce. Some of the potential factors that may influence whether or not support will be awarded include:

  • How long you have been married
  • What property you and your spouse will receive under the property division agreement
  • The standard of living that you and your spouse enjoyed during the marriage
  • The sacrifices you or your spouse made for the benefit of the marriage
  • The ability of a nonworking spouse to re-enter the workforce

Alimony may be awarded for a limited amount of time (temporary) or forever (permanent.) The length of time will depend again upon the circumstances of the marriage so you will need to present clear and compelling reasons as to why support should or should not be issued in your case.

Personalized Solutions For Your Spousal Support Case

If you would like to speak to an experienced lawyer about your spousal support case, please call our office at 616-426-9491 or send us an email to arrange your free consultation. We would be more than happy to explain how we can help you with your request.