We Help You With Spousal Support Matters In Divorce

During or after a divorce, one party may have financial obligations toward the other spouse in the form of spousal support. The courts have a great deal of discretion in the application of the law to the unique facts and circumstances of individual cases. Whether you must pay support or are entitled to receive it, it is important that the amount and duration of support are accurately set.

At the Kelly Law Office, in Columbus, you will find a lawyer who can skillfully assist you through the spousal support process at fees that are very reasonable. You will find an attorney who will be by your side from start to finish, ready to answer your questions or just listen.

A Judge Considers Many Factors To Determine Spousal Support

In Ohio, a judge does not use a statutory formula to determine whether or how much spousal support is appropriate. Instead, the court considers a variety of factors, including:

  • Length of the marriage
  • Income of each party
  • Age and physical/mental condition of the parties
  • Earning capacity of each party
  • Established standard of living
  • Relative assets and debts of each party
  • Amount of education of each party
  • Other factors the court deems appropriate and fair

These statutory factors have been interpreted by the appellate courts. We will assist you in understanding the application of these factors to your unique circumstances.

Because the court has a great deal of discretion in matters of spousal support, and judges are human beings with a wide variety of life experiences and opinions, it is important to know how your specific judge or magistrate will view your circumstances. With our experience in dealing with these individuals, we will assist you in recognizing the range of likely outcomes that can be expected from your specific judge or magistrate in your specific situation.

There are generally four (4) components to a spousal support order:

1. The monthly amount.
2. The term or length of time that the spousal support payments will continue.
3. Jurisdiction to modify or whether the court retains the power to modify the amount or length or payment upon a change in circumstances.
4. Conditions to termination, or events that will cause the support to terminate prior to the pre-specified termination date such as: the remarriage of the spouse receiving the support, the death of either spouse or cohabitation of the spouse receiving support with a paramour.

If there has been a significant change in your circumstances after receiving a court-ordered spousal support amount, it may be possible to modify your agreement. We can help you analyze your situation and give you an honest assessment of your chances in court.

We Help You Keep Your Money By Offering Reasonable Flat Or Fixed Rates

Many of our family law and other legal services are offered at flat or fixed rates. In this way, you will know upfront how much your case will cost. However, if your situation has a high degree of conflict and matters are contested, we will charge our hourly rates. The amount of these fees will be carefully explained to you during our meeting so that you know exactly what to expect.

Talk To Our Lawyer In A Free Initial Telephone Conversation

Are you ready to discuss your case with an experienced Columbus custody and spousal support attorney? Call us at 614-241-2174 or send us an email.