Fairfax Spousal Maintenance Attorneys
Sound Advice Regarding Alimony in Virginia Divorces
At MacDowell & Associates P.C., our lawyers advise clients about their right to receive or obligation to pay spousal support or alimony. Our sensible approach to these issues can protect your interests while saving you both time and money.
Whether you expect to receive or pay alimony in a Northern Virginia divorce or if you question whether the spousal support terms of a prenuptial agreement will be honored in your divorce, our attorneys can review your circumstances and advise you accordingly.
Contact our Fairfax law office at 703-763-0923 for advice about support issues during and after divorce.
Spousal Maintenance in Virginia
Spousal maintenance, often called spousal support, is based on one spouse's need and the other's ability to pay. These issues are usually considered in settlement negotiations at the same time as property division questions, especially if the tax consequences of the agreement will make the marital estate effectively larger.
Factors considered in spousal support negotiations may include:
- The earning capacity of each spouse.
- The level of education and training held by each spouse.
- The length of and standard of living established during the marriage.
- The age and wellness of the parties.
- Contributions made to the marriage and family.
There may be a genuine question as to the financially weaker spouse's right to alimony beyond a short-term award. For an older spouse without significant work experience, spousal support is usually called for and may last indefinitely.
Contact MacDowell & Associates P.C.
The divorce attorneys at MacDowell and Associates will work with you to set reasonable goals in regard to receiving an award of spousal maintenance or having to financially contribute to the needs of your former spouse. To discuss your options and protect your interests, contact our Fairfax office.
