Spousal Support

As part of a final divorce decree, one spouse can become legally responsible for providing some amount of financial support to the other for varying lengths of time. This is known as spousal support or spousal maintenance. Each case is determined based upon the individual financial abilities of the parties involved, as well as the duration of the marriage, and the various contributions made to the marriage. When one spouse stayed home to raise children while the other parent provided financial support, it is likely that spousal support will be awarded. In some cases the support will be provided until the individual has the opportunity to get training, find a job or finish their education in a profession that will allow them to become self-supporting.

Calculating Spousal Support

It will first need to be established if a spouse is eligible for support. After that, to determine the exact amount and duration of spousal support or maintenance, the court must take into consideration a number of different factors on both sides relating to income and expenses, property awarded to each party, length of marriage, disabilities if any exist, and more. Shorter marriages may not even have support considered as an option. Whether you are the party seeking maintenance or possibly having to pay, taking legal action is important. Some courts have more of a set standard that is used when deciding terms of spousal support, but in the state of Washington the decision is often left up to the court.

A Court Order can Still be Modified

Spousal support can play a pivotal role in helping the financially disadvantaged spouse to avoid the potential financial consequences of a divorce. Financial strategizing and skillful negotiating is invaluable when it comes to establishing spousal support as it can have a lasting impact on your financial security for years after your divorce is finalized. It can also be a burden for those that are ordered by the court to pay maintenance and whether it is short or long term, it can create less financial security from the income they have worked for. Changes later on in life may be good reason for an alteration to be sought to the terms of support. Modification can be pursued from both those receiving support if they believe they should be awarded more, or from the spouse that is paying support, if issues such as a job loss require them to pay less.

At Blair & Kim, PLLC, we understand how critically important the issue of spousal support is when you are considering divorce. We will explain the Washington State law, evaluate and advise you on what can be expected in your case, and will zealously protect your right to the support you deserve or minimize your obligation when appropriate. At Blair & Kim, PLLC, our primary concern is protecting your rights and your financial security.

Client Reviews
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Mark C. Blair has no rival in his field in Seattle. A consummate professional. Communication was brief, straightforward, easy to understand, and without a typical condescending tone you can sometimes experience from attorneys on top of their field. Correspondence was timely and always affective. Any in need of criminal defense, should have a conversation with Mr. Blair, and you will quickly see and feel, no further contacts, referrals, or phone calls need be made. The money and time that can be saved by streamlining future contact and collateral damage in the sentencing process will far and away be worth every penny of the fee structure. Thank you very very much Mark Blair. N.Mark French
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Sara Kim of BlairKim is a great attorney. I had never before had representation or dealt with the legal system and she made it very easy for me. She converted the legalese into laymans terms for me and helped me to understand the steps of the process. When I hesitated on certain decisions, Sara gave me the confidence and encouragement to proceed – especially since it was most beneficial to me in the long run. Sara is very straightforward and professional while also being personable and pleasant to deal with. Tamara
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Sara Kim was the perfect lawyer for our situation. We were determined not to involve the courts in our divorce. Within the first 30 minutes of consultation, Sara proposed an equitable formula for division of property which we used to negotiate an agreement that felt fair to both of us. Our flat fee arrangement with Sara covered the filing of paperwork which alleviated much pressure for us during a very stressful time. I highly recommend Sara for her flexibility, professionalism, and efficiency. Carrie