Michigan Alimony (Spousal Support) Laws

Michigan Alimony and Spousal Support Attorneys

Alimony or Spousal Support

In Michigan, Spousal Support, (or more commonly Alimony) is a term used interchangeably throughout the legislation governing it. It is referred to as Spousal Support within domestic issues that are regulated by court rules, but in all other references it is Alimony. In Michigan, Spousal Support is the court ordered payment of money to the current or former spouse in proceedings of Divorce

Divorce and Taxes or other court mandated rulings. Spousal Support was initially only given to the wife or ex wife, but upon Michigan's adoption of the No-Fault Divorce, the Alimony/Spousal Support statutes and rules became gender neutral.

How is Spousal Support/Alimony Calculated?

In Michigan, there is no established formula for awarding an Alimony or Spousal Support amount. Instead, the court will consider a multitude of factors, and weigh each accordingly. These factors are located and explained on our FAQ page: Alimony/Spousal Support Factors.

How is Spousal Support/Alimony Awarded?

Alimony or Spousal Support can be awarded one of two ways -- either in a fixed amount (awarded in gross) or in a modifiable method that is changeable by both term and amount, and awarded at intervals the court decides. There are strengths and weaknesses inherent to both Spousal Support Award methods. Our Michigan Spousal Support Attorneys are fully aware of this. When decisions are being made regarding how much Spousal Support you will have to pay, they work to turn these strengths and weaknesses to your advantage.

Purpose of Spousal Support

The purpose of Spousal Support under Michigan Alimony or Michigan Spousal Support laws are two fold. First, it works to ensure the financial stability of one of the parties, as they may have stayed home to raise the family, or were in an employment position earning significantly less than the other party. Secondly, it seeks to create fairness after the marriage by balancing the income and needs of the parties in a way that would not unduly penalize them for the break up of their marriage.

Modifications of Spousal Support

Your Spousal Support can be modified! Given their decade plus experience in Spousal Support/Alimony proceedings, our Michigan Spousal Support Lawyers can provide you with services that few legal teams can offer. For example, your alimony cannot be modified retroactively. This means that if a change is made in your support payments, you are not required to pay the difference on past already made payments! Alimony and Spousal Support proceedings are extremely emotional, and should be handled with the utmost respect and care. Our firm has been doing this for 15 years as part of our Family Law practice, and we would be happy to represent you in your case! Fill out the contact form and our Attorneys will set up a meeting with you to discuss your Alimony or Spousal Support decisions, Alimony Modifications or Spousal Support Modifications. We'll help you move forward and get on with your life.

Call us today at 1-517-886-1000, or e-mail us today!