Columbus Spousal Support Attorney
In Ohio, spousal support, referred to as alimony in some states, can be ordered for either spouse. The goal of spousal support is to reduce the financial impact of divorce in cases where the financial resources or needs are uneven among the spouses. However, reaching a fair outcome can be difficult.
At Greco Law, our experienced family law attorneys understand that money is an important aspect of your day-to-day life and sense of security. Throughout divorce and beyond, we can fiercely advocate for your needs.
What Is Alimony?
Alimony, also known as spousal support, is meant to help the lower-earning spouse maintain a standard of living similar to what they had during the marriage.
The terms “alimony” and “spousal support” are interchangeable, with Ohio law officially using the term “spousal support.” An alimony attorney can help you understand if you qualify for the support.
How Is Alimony Calculated In Ohio?
In Ohio, there is no fixed formula for calculating alimony. Instead, courts evaluate factors like:
- The income and earning abilities of both spouses
- The length of the marriage
- The standard of living established during the marriage
- Contributions made by one spouse to the education or career of the other
- The division of marital property and assets
A spousal support lawyer can help you understand the amount you are set to receive.
How Long Does Alimony Last?
A common rule of thumb is that support may last for one-third to one-half of the length of the marriage.
However, in long-term marriages (over 20 years), support may be awarded indefinitely or until the receiving spouse remarries or either party passes away. Consult with an alimony lawyer for a better understanding.
Can Alimony Be Modified?
Yes, alimony can be modified in Ohio if there is a change in circumstances. Common reasons for modification include job loss, a substantial increase or decrease in income, remarriage or retirement.
When Does Spousal Support Apply In Ohio?
The court bases spousal support on a set of 14 different factors, including income and the length of the marriage. A skilled lawyer at Greco Law can explain those factors to you.
Either party can request temporary support while the divorce is in progress. The court may issue a permanent support order as part of the final divorce decree.
Whether you seek to minimize or maximize a potential spousal support award, we can represent your best interests. As in the property division process, our team stays attentive to every opportunity available to protect your financial well-being after divorce.
Spousal Support Orders Might Not Remain Fair
As life changes, finances change, too. Therefore, an existing spousal support order might no longer be fair to both parties. If that is the situation, so long as the court has retained jurisdiction over your spousal support award, you may seek a modification.
When the order is no longer suitable, either party can seek a spousal support modification. Factors such as job loss, remarriage, cohabitation, or the need for extensive medical care could warrant a modification. We can evaluate your circumstances and help you request a modification when necessary.
In addition, we can help you hold the other party accountable for failing to obey an existing order. Until the court modifies an order, both parties must follow its terms exactly. If the other party refuses to pay the specified amount on time, you can work with our attorney to regain fairness through the court.
Cohabitation And Spousal Support: Can Payments Be Stopped?
In Ohio, courts consider cohabitation a change in circumstances that may justify terminating spousal support. Cohabitation occurs when an ex-spouse lives with a partner and shares daily expenses.
Because spousal support is meant to provide financial balance post-divorce, living with a new partner can eliminate the need for continued payments. While some agreements address cohabitation, in others, the paying spouse may petition the court for termination.
Providing Clear Answers To Your Questions
There are many common misunderstandings and concerns about spousal support. Our effective family law attorneys at Greco Law are ready to discuss your situation in detail and help you resolve any issues.
We offer initial consultations. Call 614-963-9154 or email our office in Dublin to schedule an initial consultation with a spousal support attorney by phone or email.