The navigation of finances within a divorce or separation can stir up feelings of fear and anxiety. Spousal support or alimony is a legal action that can be taken to provide the financial stability needed in the transitory moments of a divorce. This financial support can be awarded to a spouse if it can be demonstrated that this party was financially reliant on their partner within their marriage. An Albemarle alimony lawyer can assist you in this process.
In general, the spouse that earned less income will, in legal terms, be considered dependent on the other spouse, which can award them spousal support upon divorce or separation. If an alimony claim is filed, the court can require spousal support payments to the dependent party.
The process of determining eligibility and payment amount is determined by several factors. Spousal support attorneys are fluent in navigating alimony claims and can bring a great deal of stability and experience to these proceedings.
In the state of North Carolina, either member of a marriage going through a divorce can be granted spousal support. The “supporting spouse” (the party paying support) can be required by law to pay the “dependent spouse” (the party receiving support) a determined financial amount in a monthly payment or in a lump sum payment.
A judge determines the validity of an alimony claim and will allow both parties the opportunity to state their stance on financial need or lack thereof. Numerous factors are reviewed by the court when determining the terms of alimony, such as payment amount and duration. Factors that the court reviews when considering spousal support can include the following:
Receiving the support of an Albemarle, NC, alimony lawyer can provide essential insight and clear direction in determining the validity of your alimony claim.
Hiring a spousal support attorney can offer countless benefits to your claim, including the following:
North Carolina is not a strict “50-50” state when it comes to divorce settlements. The state follows the principle of fair and equitable distribution of all marital property, which does not always mean equality. The court will consider several factors to determine the allocation of assets and debts between spouses, including the income of each party, duration of marriage, contribution to marriage, and more.
Yes, North Carolina is a no-fault divorce state. To apply for a no-fault divorce, spouses can indicate that there were irreconcilable differences or extended separation as grounds for the divorce. A one-year separation is often required for this type of divorce to be accepted by the court. This legal indication states that a specific spouse is not to blame for the deterioration of the marriage. A no-fault divorce signals the mutual agreement to move towards a legal termination of the marriage.
Alimony or spousal support is generally not tied to a specific time requirement in the state of North Carolina as it can be for a no-fault divorce. The decision of alimony or spousal support can be determined and influenced by several factors other than the duration of separation. The factors the court will review in order to decide this financial support include:
A North Carolina divorce can vary in cost based on the unique circumstances of each case. Generally speaking, if navigating an amicable, no-fault divorce where all terms such as child support and child custody, asset distribution, and more are all agreed upon, the overall costs can be lower. However, if the divorce involves multiple disputes, court appearances, custody battles, and extensive legal proceedings, the costs will generally increase significantly.
The process of seeking spousal support can be a daunting and overwhelming process. There are instances where modifications or enforcement of these legal agreements need to happen. But, the steps to achieve this modifications or enforcement of agreements are unclear. Family law professionals are here for this very reason: to step in and supply information and direction. Allow The Law Offices of Aimee E. Cain to assist.
If you need support from an Albemarle, NC, alimony lawyer, contact The Law Offices of Aimee E. Cain. Our team is experienced and very knowledgeable in navigating the up-to-date laws and mandates that will assist in your spousal support case. Contact our office today to see how we can assist you with your alimony claim.