Spousal Support & Alimony
Alimony (also called spousal support), is a common issue in a divorce proceeding. If you face the potential of paying alimony, then you need an experienced attorney who can help ensure the payments ordered are set in an equitable amount and for the proper duration. The court considers multiple factors in determining whether to award spousal support. Some of these include the length of the marriage, the earning potential of both parties, the award of property and debts to each party, property brought into the marriage by the parties, the ability of the requesting party to become self-supporting, and the contribution by the parties to the marriage.
Iowa does not have spousal support guidelines and there is no set formula for determining what an exact amount of alimony is in any case. Whenever possible, the attorneys at CashattWarren Family Law attempt to negotiate an agreement on spousal support in your case. Although it is one of the hardest issues to resolve, CashattWarren Family Law attorneys are experienced in mediation and negotiation tactics which can help ensure that you get a fair deal in any negotiated settlement.
Our team has years of litigation experience, so we know what it takes to present the best case to get a favorable judgment. We work with experts when needed to look at cash flow analysis or to establish the employability of the party requesting alimony through use of a vocational expert. Just because someone makes a request for alimony does not mean the court will award it. The court reviews the factors and decides by balancing the needs of the requesting party and the ability to pay of the party from whom alimony is sought. A court may order spousal support for a period of time to allow the dependent spouse time to receive education or training to re-enter the workforce (often called rehabilitative or transitional alimony). A court may order traditional alimony for a longer term of years, or even for life if the parties’ circumstances necessitate such an award. At times, a court may award reimbursement alimony to repay an obligation, such as when one spouse has helped the other through school or other significant career advancement.
If you are facing potential alimony payments, contact CashattWarren Family Law today at 515.421.9290 and let us get started on a strategy to minimize your exposure to alimony or spousal support. We will work with you to achieve the best position for you to move forward in your life without the burdens of an inequitable support obligation to your former spouse. Our team will prepare you and your case for a manageable outcome, whether it is through a negotiated settlement with your spouse to terms you can both live with, or by advocating for your best outcome in court. Call us today to let us get started working for you.
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