Columbia Spousal Support Lawyer
Helping Clients Alimony Matters in South Carolina
Neither spouse in a divorce is automatically entitled to receive alimony, but the award of spousal support is largely at the discretion of the judge-provided only that the person requesting support has not committed adultery. If it appears to be fair and equitable for one spouse to provide for the financial support of the other, the court may make an award of alimony which is either temporary or permanent.
The purpose of alimony is often to provide a financially dependent spouse with support while transitioning back into single life and while securing the training and education necessary to earn a suitable income, as well as to maintain the standard of living established during the marriage.
Factors Influencing Alimony Amounts in South Carolina
Factors which will be considered in determining the amount of an award of spousal support include the duration of the marriage, the age and health of both spouses, the couple's current standard of living and each party's capacity for earning an income, as well as the value of each person's private assets and how much each one will receive in the property division. The court attempts to follow the principle of equitable distribution, providing a fair outcome for both parties.
Modifying Alimony Agreements
It is possible to bring a petition to court for a support modification, providing compelling evidence of why such a change is necessary. You can do this whether you are the recipient and now require a larger payment or if you have been ordered to pay and can no longer afford to meet the obligation.
Enforcing Alimony Payments
The terms for spousal support which are contained in your final decree of divorce are not merely a private agreement, but are binding legal orders with the force of law. A Columbia divorce attorney from our firm can represent you in court if your former spouse has fallen behind or become delinquent in paying you alimony, and if successful you could even collect the back support with interest calculated at the prime rate plus four percentage points.
Contact Us Today
Whether you are concerned to make sure that you receive the alimony you deserve or want to take action to protect yourself from an unfair and unsustainable order of spousal support, contact us at Masella Law Firm, P.A. for help from a team with legal experience and a background that includes prosecution in the courtroom.
