Gillette Alimony Lawyer
Wyoming Alimony and Spousal Support Representation
Divorce puts an emotional and financial burden on both parties involved. The situation can get even more distressing if it seems the quality of life you enjoyed as a couple may change because of the differences in how much you make and how much he/she makes. However, Wyoming law allows the family court to order financial support from one spouse to the other to maintain the quality of life and financial security of both spouses after a divorce.
At Steven Titus & Associates, P.C., we are here to help you get through the divorce process as easily as possible. Contact our Gillette office at (307) 257-7800 to see what we can do for you.
Alimony in Wyoming
Alimony is a payment made by one divorced spouse to the other. In some marriages, one spouse has a larger income than the other, and a standard of living is established based on what both partners contribute to the marriage. One spouse is usually economically dependent on the other and develops a standard of living based on the income brought in by the higher-earning partner. The family court, when dividing up property in a divorce, will consider how the higher-income spouse has benefited from the commitment of the dependent spouse, such as with assistance in child rearing, companionship, or other forms of support. Because of this, the spouse who earns more is then responsible for providing financial support to the dependent spouse.
In Wyoming, divorcing spouses can file for alimony as soon as the local family court deems it appropriate.
What Are Some Types of Alimony?
Under Wyoming law, there are several types of alimony. This includes:
- Rehabilitative Alimony: The goal of this form of alimony is to provide education and training to improve the employability of the financially disadvantaged spouse. Rehabilitative alimony is typically paid month to month, and it is common for this form of alimony to be modified based on a change of circumstances.
- Long-Term Alimony: Although permanent alimony awards are rare in the state of Wyoming, this form of support can be ordered after the breakup of a long-term marriage, where the age and earning capacity of the recipient spouse hinder his or her prospect of becoming self-sufficient. Courts can award long-term spousal support for a designated number of years as well.
- Lump Sum Alimony: In certain instances, the parties to a divorce will agree to a lump-sum payment in lieu of a periodic payment structure. The judge can also award a lump-sum payment at his discretion.
Factors That Contribute to Alimony Awards
A judge will decide when to award alimony based on each individual case. The ability of the higher-earning spouse to pay alimony, and the needs of the spouse receiving alimony, are typically the most prominent of these factors. The judge also will consider the following elements when determining the appropriate alimony:
- length of the marriage
- child support obligations
- tax consequences
- factors considered relevant by the court
Unlike it does for child support, the court doesn’t have a set formula that determines how these factors are weighed. The process is fairly subjective, and is up to the discretion of the presiding judge. Therefore, it is in your best interests to hire an experienced Wyoming divorce attorney to ensure that alimony is distributed in a fair manner.
Alimony and Spousal Support Modifications
After a divorce decree is final, it is still possible to modify alimony agreements. Modifications must be based on a change in financial circumstances for one of the spouses. This can include a job loss, serious illness, physical injury, or a raise or promotion.
Modifications are not limited to alimony agreements, but child support agreements as well. If you believe that your current family court order may require modification, Steven Titus & Associates, P.C., can help.
Speak with a Gillette Alimony and Spousal Support Lawyer
Alimony and spousal support are important factors in maintaining your lifestyle after a divorce. Not getting a fair amount can have a negative impact on your finances and daily living, which can be difficult to fix at a later date. That is why you need Steven Titus & Associates, P.C., on your side. Work with our trial lawyers to ensure you get a fair alimony agreement.
Contact a Gillette family law lawyer at (307) 257-7800 to schedule a consultation and see what our first-rate legal team can do for you. Our lines are open 24/7, so feel free to call day or night!
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