Alimony / Spousal Support

Chicago Spousal Maintenance Attorneys

Alimony is money paid to one spouse by the other after a divorce. It is meant to provide the receiving spouse with financial security so he or she can maintain a lifestyle similar to that lived during the marriage. Alimony is most often awarded temporarily, but in certain cases may be permanent.

For more information about alimony, contact Katz Law Office, Ltd., by calling 1-800-ABOGADO. We offer free consultations. Se habla español.

Why is Alimony Paid?

Divorce can be financially devastating for a spouse that was financially dependent on the other. This is especially true in cases where one spouse did not work during the marriage, or when one spouse stayed at home to care for children.

Alimony (also known as spousal support or spousal maintenance) is paid by the spouse who was financially supportive during the marriage. The supportive spouse is generally the spouse who made more money during the marriage.

How is Alimony Calculated?

The courts look at a number of factors when determining the amount of spousal support that will be required to pay:

• The length of the marriage
• Employment of each spouse
• Earning capacity of each spouse
• Education / training of each spouse
• Age and relative health of each spouse
• Contributions during the marriage (either financial or as a homemaker)
• Fault in marriage (was infidelity an issue?)
• Financial needs of each spouse

Although the courts typically consider the above factors, they may deviate to address the specific needs of each couple. At Katz Law Office, Ltd., we advocate for you throughout the divorce process. We will consider all angles of your alimony case, and present a compelling case to the alimony judge. Ultimately, we want to help you make a smooth transition from married life to divorced life.

Contact Us

To speak to a family law lawyer about your spousal support needs, contact us online or call 1-800-ABOGADO. Se habla español.