If you earn substantially less than your spouse, chances are you are feeling some fear and anxiety about your financial future after divorce.
Unfortunately, there is no way to answer this question without some details of your marriage, the divorce and elements of your financial background. In fact, even the courts will need to assess more than a dozen factors before granting or denying a request for alimony.
Factors considered by North Carolina courts before awarding alimony
In order to make a decision regarding spousal support, the courts will consider numerous factors including, but not limited to:
- The income of the parties
- Both parties’ age
- Marital misconduct on behalf of either party
- Both parties’ earning capacities
- The standard of living you established during your marriage
- How long you were married
Based on these and other relevant factors, the courts will decide whether to grant or deny your request for alimony and, if granted, the court will determine the amount and duration.
How you can influence the outcome
In order to influence the outcome of this issue, you will want to build your case for alimony. This includes presenting financial statements, detailed information about your current needs and expenses and your standard of living prior to the separation.
You could also resolve your claim for spousal support outside of court. You can do this by negotiating an alimony agreement through mediation discussions or by enforcing a valid prenuptial or postnuptial agreement.
Having legal guidance will be crucial
Whether you petition the courts for spousal maintenance or negotiate an agreement outside of court, legal guidance from an experienced family law attorney will be crucial. Chances are that you have never been through this process before, and working with an attorney who has experience and knowledge can help you secure the support you deserve.