Greene County Spousal Support & Alimony Attorneys

Looking Out for the Financial Needs of Our Clients

Spousal support, also known as alimony, is sometimes awarded in divorce cases, but is not automatic. Ohio law allows for alimony, based on specific factors, but it is ultimately up to the judge to make the decision regarding alimony. At Crossman & McNamee, LLC, our Greene County spousal support and alimony lawyers can explain how the law applies to your situation and what to expect regarding spousal support. We're also serving the greater Miami Valley.

Please call (937) 468-3796 to discuss alimony and other issues in a consultation, or contact us online.

Types of Alimony in Ohio

Ohio courts may award two types of alimony: temporary and permanent. Temporary alimony may be awarded for the time that the divorce is pending. At that time, the judge will issue permanent order. Of course, spousal support is not actually permanent and may be awarded in a lump sum payment, with extra marital property, or in monthly payments.

How Is Spousal Support Awarded?

The length of the marriage is a significant factor in spousal support awards. In most cases, judges do not award alimony for short marriages that last fewer than five years. If alimony is awarded, how it is received and how much will be decided by the court. Some couples come to an agreement on their own or alimony payments may be addressed in a prenuptial agreement.

When awarding spousal support, courts may consider:

• Income of both spouses
• Contributions to the marriage as a homemaker or stay-at-home parent
• Job skills and earning capacity
• The need to care for very young children or handicapped children
• The financial needs of the spouse requesting alimony
• The ability of the other spouse to pay

When alimony is awarded, it is usually for a specific amount of time, which may be guided by the length of the marriage. A common award is one year of spousal support for every three years of marriage. However, alimony may be awarded with no end date for long term marriages lasting more than 20 years. Our Greene County spousal support and alimony attorneys can help you with spousal support awards and modifications.

Contact (937) 468-3796 for our experienced, compassionate, and knowledgeable family law attorney.