Going through a divorce is really
tough. You have to worry about a number of things like the kids, the splitting
of the properties as well as spousal support or what is called alimony. Alimony
is given to the spouse who earns less or has less money. In short, it is
financial support.
The duration of giving spousal
support can last for months or years, depending on the spouse’s ability to gain
more financial security. Do you need a lawyer to get spousal support? Yes, as
he or she will help make the process easier and to assure you get your spousal
support.
Here’s a step by step guide to help you get alimony
from your divorce:
·
How Much?- To be able to ask
for spousal support, you must first know how much you’ll be asking. Calculate
rent payments, mortgage, credit card bills, utility expenses and other
expenses. After calculating that, deduct your earnings. The remainder will be
the spousal support you’ll need.
·
Know State Guidelines- States
have different ways of calculating spousal support. It is based on a formula so
you need to consult your state guidelines about this. If you don’t want to read
up, you can ask your lawyer to discuss it with you.
·
Meet with Spouse- With your divorce
attorney, meet with your spouse and his or her attorney and discuss alimony
awards. There are some cases where amicable spouses can reach an agreement with
the help of a mediator only.
·
Explain Clearly- During the
meeting, your need for spousal support should be explained clearly. Your lawyer
will be a big help in this. He or she should explain how long you need the
support for, why you need it and what you need it for. The explanation should
be very detailed, logical and rational. Otherwise, your spouse might contest
your claim.
·
File It- File the spousal
support with the help of your lawyer.
There’s one other thing you should
know. With spousal support, the payer will be the one paying the taxes. Also,
if you haven’t moved out of the home, it’s about time that you do. Alimony will
only be given if you are living apart from your spouse already. Living together
will just make it harder to split the finances. If there are kids involved, you
must discuss child custody with your divorce attorney.
Nancy McRoberts Parham, P.A.
210 N. Pierce St., Tampa, FL 33602
(813) 228-0219
(813) 228-0219
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