Resolving Spousal Support Issues In Pierce County
A critical component of divorce, for many couples, is the option for spousal maintenance. Also known as spousal support or alimony, maintenance is a financial amount granted by the court to a wife or husband for a specified amount of time. In many states, spousal support is granted based on state guidelines; however, in Washington, courts have full discretion on the amount of spousal maintenance, if any, that will be granted.
At Rehmke Andreve, PS, in Tacoma, we are committed to providing legal guidance to put Pierce Country residents on a better path. Providing consultation, mediation and representation in all family law matters, we help couples and families find workable solutions for divorce and its component parts. To discuss your specific situation with an experienced lawyer, please contact us.
Is Spousal Maintenance In Order In Your Case?
Designed to allow the husband and wife to maintain the standard of living they experienced in marriage, spousal maintenance is often awarded in divorce. It allows a spouse to have the financial backing he or she needs to re-establish himself/herself and re-enter the workforce.
When determining the amount and the duration of spousal maintenance, the court will consider not only the need of one party but also the other party’s ability to pay. Other factors may also be considered, including the length of the marriage, property division and child support. However, unlike child support, there are no schedules or statutory guidelines in place to direct courts in making spousal maintenance decisions, and the court examines all the facts and circumstances of the couple and their history.
Washington Spousal Maintenance FAQs
During the divorce process, many couples have questions about spousal maintenance. We have answered the commonly asked questions on this topic.
What factors do courts consider when determining spousal maintenance in Washington?
Washington courts do not rely on strict formulas but instead evaluate the individual circumstances of each case. Common factors include:
- Financial resources of each spouse: Courts review income, property division and each spouse’s ability to meet their needs.
- Earning capacity: Judges check whether one spouse needs training or education to become self-sufficient and how long that may take.
- Standard of living during the marriage: Courts aim to maintain a reasonable standard of living for both parties.
- Duration of the marriage: Longer marriages may justify longer or larger support awards.
- Age and health of each spouse: Medical needs and age-related challenges can affect a spouse’s ability to work and support themselves.
Because each case is unique, working with a Fircrest spousal support attorney can help ensure your circumstances are fully presented to the court.
How does the length of the marriage impact spousal maintenance decisions?
The length of the marriage is heavily considered in spousal maintenance decisions. In shorter marriages, courts usually award temporary or rehabilitative support, giving one spouse time to adjust and gain independence.
However, the court may grant longer-term or even indefinite maintenance for marriages lasting decades, especially when one spouse has been out of the workforce for many years.
Since this issue can affect financial stability after divorce, seeking guidance from our spousal maintenance lawyer in Fircrest, Washington, is essential in protecting your future.
Can spousal maintenance be modified after it has been awarded?
Yes, spousal maintenance in Washington can often be modified only if circumstances have changed substantially. For example:
- A significant increase or decrease in income.
- Job loss or disability impacting the paying spouse’s ability to work.
- Remarriage or cohabitation of the spouse receiving maintenance.
Modifications are not automatic; you must petition the court. Our skilled Fircrest divorce attorney can help present evidence and argue on your behalf to seek adjustments.
Contact Us To Learn More
With the amount and duration of spousal maintenance being discretionary not mandatory, husbands or wives are not guaranteed financial support. To learn if spousal support may be granted in your divorce or to discuss any family law concern, contact our firm online or over the phone at 253-642-4541 to schedule a consultation. Attorney Rachel Rolfs will listen to your concerns and answer your questions.