Portland Spousal Support

After spouses decide to divorce, their responsibilities to one another do not always end.  In fact, in some divorce cases, the spouse who makes the majority of the income may be ordered to spousal support (alimony) to the spouse who is regarded as “dependent”.

Spousal support is a form of payment that is made by an independent spouse to a dependent spouse.  The payment or payments are ordered by a judge in a family court who feels that spousal support is needed in order for the dependent spouse to maintain a normal quality of life.  There are many different types of spousal support that can be rewarded to a dependent spouse and these payments may be long-term or temporary. 

The length, amount and terms of the spousal support that is to be awarded must be decided upon by a judge.  When awarding spousal support, a judge will consider: 

• the income of both spouses
• the health of both spouses
• the age of both spouses
• the spouses ability to earn income
• the education level of each spouse
• the length of the marriage
• the conditions of the marriage

For example, a spouse who stayed at home throughout a lengthy marriage may be awarded spousal support because he or she has not been in the workforce for some time, and may find it difficult to find employment.  In examples like this, the spouse is categorized as dependent, and he or she is awarded payment so that his or her financial security and stability remains intact. 

If you have questions regarding a spousal support matter in the Portland, it is a wise idea to meet with a trusted Oregon divorce lawyer who has extensive experience handling spousal support cases, like yours.  When you retain the services of a Portland spousal support attorney, you will receive the information, representation, and advocacy you need to feel at ease throughout your family law matter.

If you are going through a spousal support or related family law matter in Oregon, now is the perfect time to speak with a professional Portland spousal support attorney!