Alimony and Spousal Support
Bucks County Alimony & Spousal Support Attorney
Leonid Mikityanskiy has over 15 years of experience in family law, specializing in Alimony and Spousal Support. We represent clients in matters concerning alimony in Bucks County and Philadelphia County courts. Alimony, also known as spousal support or spousal maintenance, can be one of the most challenging issues to navigate after child custody and visitation concerns.
Alimony in Bucks County
Alimony is not mandatory in Pennsylvania; courts must determine its appropriateness on a case-by-case basis. Typically, any awarded alimony is temporary, often referred to as “rehabilitative alimony,” aimed at enabling a non-working spouse to complete education or rejoin the workforce.
Key Factors in Alimony Determination
The amount and duration of alimony depend on various factors, including:
- Length of the marriage: The duration of the marriage can significantly impact the amount and duration of alimony awarded.
- Standard of Living: The lifestyle maintained during the marriage is considered when determining support.
- Income and Earning Capacities: The court evaluates the income, earning potential and assets of both spouses.
- Health and Age: The physical condition and age of each spouse can affect their ability to work.
- Contributions to Marriage: Contributions such as homemaking or supporting the spouse’s career are considered.
- Marital Misconduct: adultery committed by one spouse or other conduct during the marriage may affect alimony.
- Agreements: Prenuptial or Postnuptial Agreements between the spouses may limit or preclude alimony.
For a more detailed understanding of alimony, you can refer to Chapter 37 of Title 23 of Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes (§3701, Alimony, et seq.).
Types and Duration of Alimony
- Temporary Alimony: Short-term support awarded to maintain the status quo during the divorce process, potentially covering attorney fees (also called alimony Pendente Lite).
- Rehabilitative Alimony: Support aimed at helping a spouse gain necessary education or skills to become self-supporting.
- Permanent Alimony: Rarely awarded, typically in long marriages where one spouse cannot re-enter the workforce, sometimes due to age or health.
Modifications and Termination of Alimony
Alimony orders can be modified or terminated if the receiving spouse remarries or becomes financially independent, or if the paying spouse experiences significant financial changes.
Why Choose Us?
- Expert Legal Guidance: we provide comprehensive and personalized legal support tailored to your needs.
- Thorough Evaluations: we conduct detailed assessments of financial situations to ensure fair alimony determinations.
- Client-Focused Strategies: our approach prioritizes your goals and assertively works towards achieving a favorable outcome.