Spousal Maintenance
Seattle Area Alimony & Spousal Maintenance Lawyer
Going through a divorce is a major change for everyone involved. In Washington, the courts want to make that change as smooth as possible, and that is why they offer temporary and long-term spousal maintenance. An experienced attorney can help you come up with a spousal support plan that protects your financial interests. At the Law Offices of Susan Amini, in Bellevue, we have been helping Puget Sound area families with their alimony and other family law concerns since 1994.
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Contact the Law Offices of Susan Amini
The courts will look at a number of factors as they work to determine a fair alimony plan. In the end, their decision is made of two primary factors: the need of one spouse to receive alimony, and the ability of the other spouse to pay alimony.
If you are asking for alimony, you must demonstrate a financial need, which can be done be organizing your expenses and current income. You must also be able to demonstrate your former spouse's ability to make alimony payments. If both your and your ex are having similar financial difficulties, you may not receive spousal maintenance, no matter how difficult your current situation may be.
Awarding alimony is only the first step of the process. Once the court has determined that one party has to pay spousal support, you will next have to decide how long the plan will be and for how much money. The court will consider a number of factors when making this determination, including:
- Financial situation of both parties
- Length of marriage
- Employment history
- Time needed to be independent
- Social Security and pensions
- Property division
- Child support
It is also important to remember that there are multiple kinds of alimony. Temporary support is often given, and can start while a divorce is still pending. The court wants to help both parties through a period of adjustment, but will continue alimony payments only for as long as they are necessary.
Contact Us
If you want to know how your divorce will be affected by alimony, we are ready to answer your questions. Located off Interstate 405 and offering ample parking, our Bellevue law offices provide a warm and supportive atmosphere as you explore your options. Call (425) 454-3700 or contact us on-line today for more information.
