Spousal Support Attorney Downers Grove
Spousal Support Attorney Downers Grove
Spousal support, sometimes known as alimony, is compensation paid by one former spouse to the other, and it may be on a temporary or permanent basis. Decisions regarding the type and amount of spousal support that the recipient spouse will receive typically depend upon a variety of different circumstances. These circumstances vary from couple to couple.Â
If you are in the midst of divorce proceedings, a knowledgeable spousal support attorney serving Downers Grove can help you sort through this important issue. If you are the paying spouse, our legal team can work to ensure that any amount of spousal support you pay is reasonable. If you are the recipient spouse, we can help you pursue the full amount of spousal support to which you may be entitled.Â
Temporary Spousal Support
In some cases, a spouse may be entitled to receive alimony while the divorce proceedings are pending. For example, if one spouse does not have the resources to hire legal counsel during the divorce but the other spouse has the means to help, temporary support may be awarded.
If the parties cannot agree on the amount of temporary alimony to be paid during this time, the requesting spouse could file a motion with the court, and the court could decide what, if any, temporary support the recipient spouse will receive. A court may also order rehabilitative alimony for a set time period if it is deemed necessary to allow the recipient spouse to gain the relevant experience, skills, and training to become self-sufficient.Â
Long-Term Spousal Support
In many instances, spousal support (or spousal maintenance) is not awarded until a final divorce decree is signed by a judge. In rare instances, a spouse may be entitled to permanent support. However, it is more likely that the spouse will receive support for a specified period of time. In making decisions about alimony, Illinois courts will consider a variety of factors, including the following:Â
- Each spouse’s financial needs
- Each spouse’s anticipated earning capacity
- One spouse’s decision to give up education in order to care for minor children
- Amount of time necessary for a spouse to obtain training, education, and experience
- The couple’s standard of living while they were married
- The length of time the parties were married
- Whether a recipient spouse supported the other spouse while they pursued education or training
- Any agreement that is already in place between the partiesÂ
An experienced spousal support attorney serving Downers Grove can help you understand how each of these factors might impact support determinations in your case.
Modifying a Spousal Support Order
It is important to keep in mind that changes to spousal support orders could be necessary over time, although they are not common. Generally speaking, in order for the court to order a change in spousal support, there must be a material change in circumstances that arises between one or both of the parties, such as a significant increase or decrease in annual income.Â
Speak to Our Skilled Spousal Support Attorney near Downers Grove Today
Spousal support is often a subject of much contention between parties who are in the process of divorcing. The experienced attorneys at the Goodman Law Firm can help you work with the other side to resolve spousal support issues and disputes. To schedule a case evaluation with an experienced spousal support attorney near Downers Grove, please contact us today.
FAQs About Divorce in Illinois
What should I do if I have been served with divorce papers?
If you have received service of divorce papers, contact an experienced divorce attorney to review the documents, understand your rights, and plan your next steps. Time is critical in divorce proceedings, and having skilled legal counsel from the start can make all the difference.
How can I prepare for my initial consultation with a divorce attorney?
Bring documents such as financial records, prenuptial agreements, and a list of any questions you have. Be prepared to discuss your relevant goals and concerns openly and honestly. The more information you provide, the better we can assess your situation and develop a strategy that serves your best interests.
How are collaborative law, mediation, and negotiation different?
- Collaborative law is a structured process where both parties and their attorneys commit to resolving the divorce without going to court. It involves open communication and cooperation, with the goal of reaching a mutually beneficial agreement.
- In mediation, a neutral third-party mediator facilitates discussions to help divorcing parties reach a mutual agreement. Rather than making decisions, the mediator guides the negotiation process toward productive outcomes.
- Negotiation involves discussions between the parties directly or their attorneys to settle divorce terms. Unlike mediation, there is no neutral third party.
What should I expect during the divorce process?
The process typically involves filing for divorce, exchanging information, negotiating terms, and finalizing the agreement. If negotiations fail, courtroom litigation will become part of the process.
What happens if my spouse refuses to cooperate during the divorce?
If your spouse is uncooperative, the court may have to intervene to resolve disputes. At Goodman Law Firm, our attorney has experience in handling contentious cases and will advocate for your interests even in circumstances where spousal cooperation is limited.