Baltimore County Spousal Support Attorney
Divorce rates have significantly dropped in Maryland over the past two decades. And that’s a good thing. One study found that in 1990, there were 3.4 divorces for every 1000 inhabitants in the Free State. In 2020, the study found that the rate had dropped to 1.7 divorces per 1000 inhabitants. However, despite the drop, the issue of spousal support still has not changed, not only in Maryland but also in Baltimore County. It is still as complex as ever, something a Baltimore County spousal support attorney knows all too well.
At Divorce With a Plan, our spousal support lawyers are here to help with such matters. We know how complicated spousal support laws can be and how easy it is to make the wrong decisions, especially under such circumstances. Our attorneys also understand that each individual is different, based on their experience handling different spousal support issues throughout the state.
No one ever enters into a marriage praying for the worst. But the reality is that these things happen. So, when we say we have a plan, trust us because we do.
What Does a Spousal Support Lawyer Do?
A spousal support lawyer is a type of family law attorney specializing in cases involving spousal support, also known as alimony. This attorney assists clients in negotiating, litigating, and resolving disputes regarding spousal support in a divorce or separation case.
What Is Spousal Support in Maryland?
Spousal support, also known as alimony, is a type of financial support paid by one spouse to the other after a divorce or separation. Spousal support in Maryland aims to help the recipient maintain the standard of living established during the marriage and assist in achieving self-sufficiency.
What Are Some Important Support Laws in Maryland?
Maryland has specific laws and guidelines regarding spousal support (alimony) that apply to divorce and separation matters in the state. These laws are usually broad and apply differently based on the unique circumstances of each individual case.
That said, here are some important spousal support laws in Maryland you should know.
Purpose of Spousal Support
The purpose of spousal support in Maryland is to assist the recipient in achieving self-sufficiency and maintaining the standard of living established during the marriage.
Types of Spousal Support
Maryland mainly recognizes three main types of spousal support. They include the following:
Temporary support
This is a short-term form of support that usually ends when the judge gives a new support order or finalizes the divorce.
Rehabilitative
This applies if the lower-earning spouse can become self-sufficient but requires some time and support to acquire the necessary job training or education to seek meaningful employment.
Indefinite alimony
In some rare circumstances, the court might also award the lower-earning spouse indefinite support if they cannot seek employment and become financially independent. This usually happens due to illness, age, disability, etc.
Factors Considered in Awarding Spousal Support
When determining the amount and duration of spousal support, the court will consider factors such as:
- the length of the marriage;
- the financial needs and resources of each party;
- the physical and mental condition of each party;
- any prior agreements between the two parties;
- the ability of the supporting spouse to pay; and
- the contributions of each spouse to the marriage.
Modification of Spousal Support
Spousal support can be modified if there is a significant change in circumstances, such as a loss of a job, a change in health, or a significant increase in income.
Termination of Spousal Support
Spousal support will automatically terminate in Maryland upon the death of either party, the remarriage of the recipient, or if the court decides that it is the fair thing to do.
When to Claim Alimony in Maryland
In Maryland, you can claim alimony only before the finalization of the divorce.
Can I Change My Spousal Support Order in Maryland?
Yes, as mentioned earlier, changing a spousal support order in Maryland is possible under certain circumstances. For instance, a change in circumstances, such as a loss of job, change in health, or a significant increase in income, may warrant a modification of a spousal support order.
To request a modification of a spousal support order in Maryland, you must file a motion with the court and provide evidence of the change in circumstances. The court will then review the request and determine if a modification is appropriate.
It is important to note that changing a spousal support order can be a complex process. For this reason, it is always a good idea to consult a qualified Baltimore County spousal support lawyer who can assist you in navigating the legal process and ensuring your rights and interests are protected.
How Long Does Spousal Support Last in Maryland?
The duration of spousal support in Maryland will depend on the specific circumstances of each case and the type of support awarded to the recipient.
Temporary spousal support is meant to provide support while divorce or separation proceedings are still pending. This type of support may last until the final resolution of the case.
On the other hand, rehabilitative spousal support provides support for a specific period of time to allow the recipient to obtain the education or training necessary to become self-sufficient. The duration of rehabilitative spousal support will depend on the specific circumstances of the case, including the length of time required to obtain the education or training.
Lastly, the duration of indefinite spousal support varies on a case-by-case basis. It may be for a set period of time or the remainder of the recipient’s life.
That said, keep in mind that spousal support in Maryland will automatically terminate upon the death of either party or the remarriage of the recipient. Also, the duration of spousal support can be subject to change if there is a significant change in circumstances.
If My Spouse Gets Remarried, Do I Still Pay Spousal Support in Maryland?
In Maryland, spousal support will automatically terminate if the recipient remarries. But here’s the catch; suppose you are paying spousal support and your spouse remarries. In that case, you must inform the court immediately to have the support order terminated. Failure to do so could result in the continuation of support payments, even after the recipient has remarried.
How Can a Baltimore County Spousal Support Attorney Help?
The issue of spousal support is not the easiest to navigate. This is partly because the person you marry is not usually the person you divorce.
The individual aside, spousal support laws are complex. Without proper legal guidance and representation, you may make decisions that could haunt you for years, even after the end of the marriage.
That is one of the reasons it is always advisable to consult an experienced spousal support attorney from Divorce With a Plan. So,how exactly can we help?
Here’s how.
At Divorce With a Plan, we can provide critical legal advice on your rights and obligations under the family laws of Maryland. This includes but is not limited to the type of spousal support that best suits your unique situation and the factors that may impact the amount and duration of support.
Our experienced spousal support attorney can also help you negotiate a settlement with your soon-to-be ex-spouse or their attorney that considers your financial needs and resources. However, if a settlement cannot be reached, our attorneys can represent you in court and fight for your rights and interests.
And if there is a significant change in circumstances, we can assist in seeking a modification of a spousal support order.
Spousal Support Matters Are Complex, But We Have a Plan For You
Divorce With a Plan is a family law firm with a unique approach to spousal support matters. As the name suggests, we are a family law firm with a plan. We don’t just settle these matters using standard one-fits-all techniques like any other law firm.
Rather, we believe that each case is unique. That’s why you need a plan, whether you are the spouse who owes support or is entitled to support. We believe that although spousal support is a complex matter, it does not have to be if you have a proper plan.
It takes years of experience to know what plan works and what does not. The last thing you want when facing the issue of child support is to have a trial-and-error approach. That never works. But unfortunately, that’s how many inexperienced attorneys handle such cases.
At Divorce With a Plan, our attorneys can help you reach an agreement with your spouse over this matter. But the truth is that not all spouses are the same. And if the need arises, we can represent you in court, ensuring your rights are respected and protected.
Ready to speak with an experienced Baltimore County spousal support attorney about your situation? Contact us today to schedule a consultation.