Spousal Support Lawyer in Macomb County

Helping Clients Resolve Alimony Issues in Michigan

If you are facing divorce in Michigan, you may be worried about your finances during and after the divorce. If you have been financially dependent on your spouse during your marriage, you may be wondering if you can make it without their support. If you have been the primary or sole earner during your marriage, you may be concerned that you will not have enough to live on if you need to pay your spouse alimony (called “spousal support” in Michigan).

At Paul S. Kowal, P.C., our Macomb County spousal support attorney understands these concerns and can help you and the other party determine if spousal support is appropriate for your situation. We will work directly with you and negotiate with the other party to create an effective plan that will yield positive results in your case.

For detailed information on how we can resolve your legal issue, contact our office at (586) 333-3446. We also serve residents of Macomb Township, Shelby Township, Clinton Township, Sterling Heights, Utica, & the surrounding areas. 

Michigan Alimony Laws 

Spousal support laws can vary greatly from state to state, and people often misunderstand how spousal support is determined in Michigan. 
The laws for alimony in Michigan are as follows:

• Spousal support may be awarded to either party if the marital property they receive in the divorce is not sufficient for their “suitable support and maintenance” and that of any children in their care. 
• There is no minimum amount of time a couple needs to have been married for spousal support to be awarded in Michigan.
• Spousal support can be awarded as a lump sum or as periodic payments.
• Alimony may be ordered for a limited time or on a long-term basis.

 How is Alimony Calculated in Michigan?

While child support is based on a formula, there is no such formula for determining spousal support. Instead, the court will weigh several factors, including:

• The past relations and conduct of the parties
• How long the parties were married
• The ability of each spouse to work and their earning capacity
• The source and amount of property awarded to each spouse in property division
• The ability of the paying spouse to pay spousal support
• Whether the spouse requesting alimony is responsible for supporting others, including adult children with special needs
• The parties’ present situation
• The difference in the parties’ incomes
• The standard of living established during the parties’ marriage
• The age, health, and needs of both parties
• General principles of equity or fairness

If you and your spouse cannot agree on the issue of alimony, the court may need to make the decision on your behalf.

How Is Alimony Determined in Michigan?

Couples are free to agree on an amount and duration of alimony, typically referred to as spousal support. If the couple asks the court to decide upon an arrangement, the court will consider factors such as the length of the marriage and the division of property settlement to determine an amount of alimony and the duration of alimony. The parties can agree that alimony/spousal support is not modifiable. If spousal support is awarded after a trial, it will remain modifiable.

Contact Our Macomb County Spousal Support Lawyer Today

Whether you need someone to help you negotiate the most favorable terms for your spousal support agreement or represent your interests in court, Paul S. Kowal, P.C. will advocate effectively for your rights and interests.

For your complimentary consultation, call our office directly at (586) 333-3446 or complete our online contact form.