Clinton Township Spousal Support Attorneys

Helping You Understand Alimony in Michigan

Going through a divorce can be one of the most challenging times in a person’s life, and the emotional toll can feel overwhelming. Amid the emotional stress, newly divorced spouses often face financial uncertainty, especially when one partner has depended on the other for financial support. If you’re navigating a divorce in Clinton Township or Macomb County and are concerned about how you will meet your financial needs post-divorce, spousal support (commonly referred to as alimony) may be essential for your future.

At Ziulkowski & Associates, we understand the complexities of spousal support in Michigan. Our experienced team of Clinton Township spousal support attorneys is here to guide you through every step of the process, ensuring you receive the financial assistance you deserve.

Contact Ziulkowski & Associates today at (586) 600-7623 to discuss your alimony needs and secure the financial support you deserve after your divorce in Clinton Township.

What Is Spousal Support?

Spousal support, also known as alimony, is a financial payment made by one spouse to the other after a divorce. The purpose of spousal support is to ensure that the lower-earning spouse can maintain a similar standard of living to what they experienced during the marriage.

What Are the Different Types of Alimony in Michigan?

In Michigan, spousal support, also known as alimony, can be classified into four types based on the circumstances of the divorce:

• Temporary Support: This type of support is awarded during the divorce process and typically lasts until the divorce is finalized. For example, one spouse may cover house payments and utility bills while the divorce is ongoing. However, if there is a significant income disparity, temporary payments may continue post-divorce, with a judge possibly issuing a new order for long-term assistance.
• Periodic Support: This financial assistance is designed to help one spouse gain education or training, especially if they have been out of the workforce to raise children or care for elderly relatives. A judge may grant periodic support to ensure the spouse can achieve financial independence.
• Permanent Support: Awarded in cases without a prenuptial agreement, this type of support is often granted in long-term marriages or situations where one spouse requires ongoing financial assistance due to limited earning capacity.
• Lump Sum Payment: In this rare scenario, one spouse agrees to accept a one-time payment in the form of property, retirement benefits, cash, stock, or other assets, settling the financial obligations at once.

These provisions ensure that both parties have a fair chance at financial stability post-divorce.

What Qualifies You for Spousal Support in Michigan?

In Michigan, not everyone qualifies for spousal support, as the court considers several factors to determine entitlement. Unlike child support, which uses a mathematical formula, spousal support decisions involve a more nuanced analysis of numerous factors. This comprehensive approach reflects the complexity of each marital situation and aims to ensure a fair outcome for both parties. Here's how spousal support is determined:

• Length of the Marriage: Longer marriages tend to favor spousal support, especially when one spouse has been financially dependent for an extended period.
• Earning Capacity of Each Spouse: Significant income disparities may lead the court to award support to the lower-earning spouse.
• Contributions to the Marriage: Both financial contributions and non-financial roles, such as child-rearing and homemaking, are taken into account.
• Age and Health of Both Spouses: Older spouses or those with health issues that hinder employment may have a stronger claim for support.
• Standard of Living During the Marriage: The objective of spousal support is often to maintain the lifestyle both spouses enjoyed during their marriage.
• Fault in the Breakdown of the Marriage: While fault (like infidelity or abuse) can be considered, it isn’t the primary factor in Michigan.

It's important to note that for a court to grant a divorce judgment in Michigan, the residency requirements must be satisfied. The plaintiff—the spouse filing for divorce—must have lived in Michigan for at least 180 days before filing and in the county where they file for at least 10 days, unless specific conditions apply, such as having minor children or concerns about the children’s safety regarding international relocation.

Challenges to Getting Spousal Support in Michigan

While spousal support is designed to help those in need, obtaining it is not always straightforward. Several challenges can arise during the process, including:

• Disputes over income and expenses: It is common for spouses to disagree about each other’s true income and living expenses, making it difficult to agree on a fair alimony amount.
• Proving financial need: The spouse seeking alimony must clearly demonstrate their financial need, which can involve producing detailed financial records and budgets.
• Ability to pay: Even if one spouse clearly needs financial support, the paying spouse must have the ability to provide it. If their financial situation is unstable or they face significant debts, the court may limit or deny alimony.
• Changing circumstances: After alimony has been awarded, either spouse can request a modification if their financial circumstances change. However, proving the need for a modification can be difficult.

Given these challenges, it’s important to have a skilled spousal support attorney to guide you through the process and protect your rights.

How an Alimony Attorney in Clinton Township Can Help

At Ziulkowski & Associates, our spousal support attorneys have a deep understanding of Michigan’s alimony laws. We will work diligently to gather all necessary evidence, advocate for your financial interests, and ensure that the court considers all relevant factors in your case.

Whether you are seeking alimony or defending against an alimony request, our team can help with:

• Evaluating your financial situation and ensuring that all income, expenses, and assets are accurately presented to the court.
• Negotiating settlements that reflect your financial needs and goals, allowing you to avoid drawn-out court battles.
• Filing for alimony modifications if your financial circumstances change, such as a job loss, remarriage, or significant increase in income.

Why Choose Ziulkowski & Associates?

At Ziulkowski & Associates, we are committed to providing compassionate and effective legal representation to individuals facing divorce and spousal support disputes in Clinton Township and Macomb County. Here’s why you should trust us with your case:

• Experience: Our attorneys have extensive experience handling spousal support cases and understand the nuances of Michigan family law.
• Client-focused approach: We take the time to listen to your concerns, explain your options, and create a legal strategy tailored to your needs.
• Aggressive representation: We fight for your financial interests and won’t back down from difficult negotiations or court battles.
• Proven results: We have successfully secured favorable spousal support outcomes for many clients in Clinton Township and surrounding areas.

Don’t navigate the complexities of spousal support alone.

Contact Ziulkowski & Associates at (586) 600-7623 for a confidential consultation and take the first step toward securing the financial support you deserve.