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Handling Complex And Contentious Alimony Disputes

Maintenance orders, also called spousal support or alimony, is a temporary or permanent payment from one former spouse to another. Getting a divorce is often already difficult, and alimony can be another challenging hurdle for divorcing couples to overcome. Additionally, the length and amount of alimony payments are up to the discretion of the family court judge in a case. Because of the variability of these cases, it is essential that you hire a skilled family law attorney.

Johnston, Stannard, Klesner, Burbidge & Fitzgerald, P.L.C., is a family law firm that helps people in Iowa City and Cedar Rapids with their divorce and alimony cases. Whether you wish to obtain alimony or protect your finances, we will aggressively fight to get your desired outcome. Our lawyers focus on the needs of clients and will do everything in their power to protect your future. You can call our office now at 319-359-6492 to schedule your free 30-minute initial consultation.

How Is Alimony Determined?

Alimony is paid by supporting spouse to the dependent spouse (the spouse who makes less money). While there are a set of factors that family court judges must consider when determining the amount and length of a maintenance order, there is no set formula. Instead, the family court judge will evaluate the factors related to the spouses’ lives before and after the divorce to figure out the length and amount of a maintenance order.

Just a few of the statutory factors, which a judge will consider when deciding alimony payments include:

  • Marriage length
  • Age
  • Physical and emotional health of both parties
  • Educational level and prospects
  • Tax obligations
  • Prenuptial agreements

While alimony payments have traditionally been thought of as something that is paid exclusively by men to women, this is not true. Both men and women may be eligible for alimony payments depending on the circumstances of their divorce. Additionally, married same-sex couples may also be compelled to follow a maintenance order.

Learn More About Alimony In A Free 30-Minute Initial Consultation

You can learn more about maintenance orders and your rights by talking to one of our knowledgeable staff members in a free 30-minute initial consultation. You can call us at 319-359-6492 or email us to schedule your free 30-minute initial consultation.

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