Oakland County Spousal Support Lawyers

Attorneys for Alimony Cases in Novi and Farmington Hills Areas

When you and your spouse decide to pursue a divorce, there will almost certainly be an economic impact on both of your lives. Rewriting a budget may be helpful, but it is not always enough. You may not have the financial resources you need to move forward on your own. That is why Michigan law allows for the possibility of spousal support. Sometimes called alimony, spousal support can be ordered as the result of an agreement between you and your spouse or when it is found to be necessary by the court.

At Elkouri Heath PLC, we know that it can be challenging to negotiate a divorce settlement that includes spousal support, and it can be even more difficult to convince the court that you need help. Our experienced family law attorneys have the knowledge and skill to assist you in obtaining the resources you need to get back on your feet and on the road to financial independence.

Results-Oriented Counsel for Spousal Support in Southeast Michigan

Michigan law does not guarantee that spousal support will be awarded in every divorce situation. If no agreement can be reached between the spouses and one spouse asks for support, the court must examine all of the relevant circumstances to determine if an alimony award is appropriate. The court will consider, at the very least:

• The relationship between spouses and any assignment of fault for the breakdown of the marriage;
• How long the marriage lasted;
• The age, health, and employability of each spouse;
• The economic resources of each spouse, including property received in the divorce;
• Each spouse's needs;
• Each spouse's contributions to the marital estate;
• The ability of either spouse to pay alimony;
• The standard of living established during the marriage and whether either spouse was financially dependent on the other; and
• General principles of equity.

Calculating Support Payments

Whether you have asked for spousal support or your spouse is asking you to make payments, it is important to keep in mind that all calculations must be handled on a case-by-case basis, according to Michigan law. There is no set formula that can be used and courts that have created their own have had their rulings overturned on appeal. The court must use the same circumstantial factors in determining how much will be paid and for how long.

Attorneys Susan Elkouri and Symantha Heath have been assisting family law clients in Wayne County and Oakland County for more than 20 years. At our law firm, we combine a vast working knowledge of the law with a personalized approach that makes each client feel like a part of our family. We understand the value of cooperation and negotiation, and we utilize alternative dispute resolution methods like mediation and collaborative law whenever possible. Our lawyers also realize that litigation is sometimes necessary and we will advocate on your behalf in the courtroom when needed.

Contact a Spousal Support Professional

If you have questions about spousal support or any other element of the divorce process, contact our office. Call 248-344-9700 for free, confidential consultation at Elkouri Heath PLC today. Located in Novi, MI, we serve clients in Livonia, Northville, Macomb, Canton, Livingston, Farmington Hills, Oakland County, Wayne County, and throughout the surrounding areas.