Spousal Support & Maintenance

Experienced NYC Divorce Lawyer

What was once known as alimony is now more commonly referred to as spousal maintenance, and it exists independently from child support payments. Its intent is to compensate the more financially dependent spouse for the loss of income that results from divorce. With rare exceptions, the state of New York views spousal maintenance as a temporary arrangement, not a long-term payment plan. Our New York City divorce lawyers at Cedeño Law Group, PLLC, can help you seek the support you need after your marriage has ended.

Exceptions to spousal maintenance time restraints can be made for:

• Mental disability
• Physical disability
• Spouses who are over 60 years old

How Is Spousal Maintenance Determined In New York City?

Several factors influence the terms of a spousal maintenance settlement, and though there is no inherent right to alimony payments, they are frequently mandated by the courts. Spousal maintenance can be required during or following a divorce settlement. Assuming the divorcing couple did not submit its own, legally binding spousal maintenance agreement, it is up to the court to determine the actual terms based on numerous factors.

The amount and duration of spousal maintenance payments are determined by:

• Duration of the marriage
• Disparity of incomes
• Health of each spouse
• Presence or absence of young children

If one spouse is unable to afford the services of a divorce lawyer, he or she can request spousal support for legal fees as well. When court-ordered alimony payments are not made, the offending party may be found in contempt of court and placed in jail. At Cedeño Law Group, PLLC, we have more than 20 years of experience in family law matters, and we’ve helped numerous clients navigate the difficult waters of divorce and spousal maintenance.

Whether you’re the primary wage earner or have been financially dependent on your spouse, we’re here to listen to your concerns and help you arrive at the solution you desire. Our New York City divorce attorneys are committed to helping protect the interests of all of our clients and are ready to be in your corner as you continue to move forward with your life in confidence.

To see why Peter L. Cedeño is so highly reviewed by clients and colleagues alike, contact our firm today for a consultation.