The breakdown of a marriage can have a significant impact on your finances. When spouses separate or divorce, a single household budget becomes two. Ohio law gives judges a great deal of discretion in whether or not to order spousal support (commonly referred to as alimony). Unlike child support, there is no set formula for calculating spousal support in Ohio. The courts weigh a variety of factors to determine an appropriate and reasonable amount of alimony under the circumstances.
In many ways, individuals may associate spousal support with punishment. The conduct of a spouse, such as infidelity, is not a relevant factor for the courts to consider in granting alimony. At Crawford & Lowry, L.L.C., in Canton, Ohio, we are well-versed in evaluating the relevant factors and crafting effective arguments to protect our clients' interests in spousal support disputes.
Among the many important factors that magistrates and judges consider in alimony matters are:
- The length of the marriage
- The standard of living of the spouses before separation or divorce
- The income and earning capacity of each party
- The education level of each party
- The ages and health of the parties
- Tax implications of a spousal support order
A temporary support order during the divorce proceedings does not necessarily mean that support will be permanent in the final divorce decree. Contentious issues can involve whether support is needed at all and the potential duration of a spousal support order. After a short marriage, and when the parties have similar incomes, education and earning capacity, the court is less likely to order alimony. However, no two families are the same.
Attorney Jennifer Lowry-Juergensen has significant experience in Stark County domestic relations matters and knows the tendencies of the magistrates and judges. She draws on that knowledge and experience to explain the available legal options and construct solutions aimed at protecting the financial interests of our clients. A reasoned strategy is critical in solving disputes in negotiations. When the opposing party is not reasonable, Ms. Lowry-Juergensen is a trial lawyer who is well-prepared to fight to protect clients' rights.
To schedule an appointment with a goal-oriented alimony and divorce lawyer, call us at 330-452-6773 or send us a message using the online form. We represent clients in Canton, Massillon, Alliance and surrounding areas.
