Alimony plays a role in many Utah divorce cases. Also referred to as spousal maintenance or spousal support, it is designed to achieve a financial balance between both spouses as they start their new lives after a divorce.
At Greenwood Associates, our Provo divorce attorneys are committed to getting you a fair outcome. We have 30 years of experience. We know the ins and outs of alimony and can help you make certain that payments are fair based on your circumstances.
How Alimony Works in Utah
Alimony is not automatic in Utah, and it is not meant to punish either spouse. Instead, the court looks at the financial reality of each person and tries to prevent one spouse from being left unable to meet reasonable needs. The court weighs factors such as the financial condition and needs of the spouse seeking support, that spouse's earning capacity, the ability of the paying spouse to provide support, and the length of the marriage.
As a general rule, alimony does not last longer than the marriage itself, though the court can adjust the amount and duration based on the circumstances. Support can also end or be modified if the receiving spouse remarries or begins cohabiting, or if there is a significant change in either party's situation.
Protecting Your Interests
Whether you expect to pay or receive support, the numbers matter. We carefully review income, earning capacity, reasonable monthly expenses and the standard of living established during the marriage to make sure the calculations are sound and the result is fair. When circumstances change later, we can also help you pursue a modification of an existing alimony order.
Contact our firm today and schedule a consultation regarding your alimony questions and concerns.