What You Need to Know About Michigan Spousal Support

The employment of spousal support, also referred to as alimony, occurs in cases where it’s necessary to even the economic playing field while the couple adjusts to life apart. If a couple cannot agree to terms of spousal support, determination about eligibility and amount are at the discretion of the Michigan court system. The amount of spousal support allowed is based on a wide variety of factors.

Factors determining spousal support

• The overall mental, physical and financial condition of each person
• Education level of each spouse
• Property distribution
• Length of marriage
• Previous standard of living
• Work histories
• Necessary workforce trainings

Length of spousal support period

A judge typically orders periodic spousal support, meaning that payments occur according to a schedule rather than in a lump sum. That payment schedule is either temporary or permanent.

Changes to spousal support

Unless explicitly disallowed in the outline of your divorce, if presented with new facts, a judge can reassess spousal support.

Changing times

More often today, couples have similar earnings, reducing the frequency of support awarded in the courts. According to Judith McMullen, a professor of law at Marquette University in Wisconsin, in the 1960’s, spousal support was awarded in one of every four divorces. Today, that number has dropped to one in ten divorces.

Whether a couple’s divorce negotiations occur outside or inside the courts, it’s important to consider spousal support if you’re unsure what your post-divorce financial future will look like. Legal counsel can help you prepare the best case for a judge.