Going through a divorce is tough, especially from a financial standpoint. When you are dealing with the emotional implications of a split, you have enough to worry about without throwing money into the mix. However, for many couples, it is important to consider how their income will change after the divorce. Spouses who shared unequal incomes or earning capacities may request spousal support payments. Although spousal support is not present in every divorce, it is common. If your spouse was the main breadwinner in your home, obtaining support payments may be necessary for your livelihood. However, if your spouse is asking that you pay spousal support, sometimes those payments can be unfair.
If you need help requesting or paying spousal support, our firm can help. At Moermond & Mulligan, LLC, our compassionate family law attorneys understand the issues that come with divorce. We know how difficult this time can be, which is why we want to help make the process as simple and quick as possible. Our skilled divorce lawyers will protect your interests and help you fight to secure the spousal support agreement you require.
Call our Dayton spousal support lawyers at (513) 421-9790 to request a free consultation.
About Spousal Support in Ohio
Spousal support is an arranged set of payments made from one spouse to another after a divorce. Usually, these payments occur once a month at a set amount and continue until either person’s circumstances change. The intent of spousal support is to supply the lesser earning spouse with the income he or she requires to sustain the same standard of living enjoyed during the marriage. Some couples may be able to negotiate the amount and duration of the payments on their own, but many rely on the court to make the final order.
How Ohio Courts Determine Spousal Support
Ohio courts will consider several factors before deciding on court-ordered spousal support payments. First, the court will assume that both spouses contributed equally to the marriage, either by taking care of the home, the children, or by working.
The court will also consider:
- The earning capacity of each spouse
- Each spouse’s income
- The individual assets and debts of each spouse
- The duration of the marriage
- The ages of either spouse
- Each spouse’s physical and mental health
- The standard of living during the marriage
- Which spouse acted as primary caregiver to their children during the marriage
The court may also consider other ways in which each spouse contributed to the marriage, especially if those contributions affecting either spouse’s earning capacity. For example, if one spouse supported the other while he or she earned a degree, or if one spouse stayed home to raise children and forfeited an education of his or her own.
If you are going through a divorce, our Dayton spousal support lawyers can help you with your spousal support wishes. We can assess your current situation and help create a case that benefits you and your family.
Contact Moermond & Mulligan, LLC to get started on your case today by calling our Dayton spousal support attorneys at (513) 421-9790.