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Spousal Support

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Spousal Support

Fear of financial instability keeps many people trapped in unhappy marriages. Spousal support offers a way to claim the resources you need to divorce and live independently. For more than 25 years, the attorneys at Lucido & Manzella, P.C. have been the fierce advocates clients rely on to get fair results. We take every case personally and refuse to settle for less than what’s right.

What is the Purpose of Spousal Support?

Spousal support is intended to help balance the financial realities of a divorce. Its primary goals are to assist the lower-earning spouse in maintaining their standard of living and to provide the resources needed to become financially independent.

It is important to understand that spousal support is not granted automatically in every Michigan divorce. The court awards it based on the specific circumstances of each case. Our team can help you understand how these principles apply to your situation and guide you through the process of seeking a fair outcome.

Factors Michigan Courts Consider for Spousal Support

When deciding whether to award spousal support, and for how much, Michigan courts do not use a rigid formula. Instead, a judge will carefully evaluate several factors to determine what is reasonable for both parties.

The court will look at:

  • The length of the marriage: Longer marriages are more likely to result in a spousal support award.
  • Each spouse’s age and health: These factors can impact a person’s ability to work and earn a living.
  • Earning capacity and employment history: The court reviews each person’s income, education, and job skills.
  • Contributions to the marriage: This includes non-financial contributions, such as managing the household, raising children, or supporting the other spouse’s career advancement.
  • The standard of living during the marriage: The court aims to allow both parties to live a reasonably similar lifestyle post-divorce, if possible.
  • Each party’s conduct: While Michigan is a no-fault divorce state, fault can sometimes influence a spousal support decision.

Our attorneys at Lucido & Manzella, P.C. can help you gather the documentation to build a strong case.

How Long Does Spousal Support Last?

How long spousal support payments last varies greatly. It may be temporary, designed to give the recipient time to gain new skills or education to reenter the workforce. This is often called “rehabilitative” support. In other cases, particularly after long-term marriages where one spouse has a significantly lower earning capacity, support may be awarded for a longer period or even indefinitely.

Spousal support agreements or court orders can set a fixed end date or be left open to modification if circumstances change, such as a change in income or remarriage. We work to establish support arrangements that provide security and fairness for the appropriate length of time.

How Lucido & Manzella, P.C. Can Help You

With more than 25 years of experience in Michigan family law, Lucido & Manzella, P.C. is ready to protect your financial interests and fight for the spousal support you deserve. We have successfully handled countless cases throughout Macomb County and understand exactly what it takes to achieve a fair outcome.

Our approach includes:

  • Carefully reviewing financial records, tax returns, and pay stubs.
  • Documenting each spouse’s contributions to the marriage, both financial and domestic.
  • Calculating a fair and defensible support amount under Michigan law.
  • Negotiating aggressively for a favorable settlement or, if necessary, representing you in court.

We also anticipate the arguments your spouse’s legal team might raise to reduce or deny support and develop strong counter-strategies to protect your interests. With Lucido & Manzella, P.C. on your side, you can face the divorce process knowing your spousal support claim is in nothing less than experienced, relentless hands.

Don’t Let Money Hold You Back

You shouldn’t have to stay in an unhappy marriage because of financial worries. A fair spousal support award can give you the stability you need to move forward with confidence. At Lucido & Manzella, P.C., we take an aggressive approach to fight for every dollar you deserve. Contact our spousal support attorneys today to start claiming the support you need.

Talk To An Experienced & Aggressive Lawyer Today.

We offer a free initial consultation so you will get an opportunity to meet us, and we will have an opportunity to learn more about your legal issue.

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Our consultations offer an opportunity for you to meet our team and discuss your legal issues.

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