Help in Determining Spousal Maintenance in Minnesota
Spousal maintenance is an issue that is very fact specific. Unlike child support, there is a lot of room for negotiation. The longer the marriage and the greater disparity of income, more likely spousal maintenance will be a topic in your divorce. − Burnsville family law attorney Merlyn Meinerts
Spousal maintenance (also known as alimony or spousal support) is available in Minnesota if one of the parties doesn't have enough income or property to support him or herself. Unlike child support, there is no formula for determining spousal maintenance. Instead, it is based on factors the court considers, such as:
- Length of marriage
- How long the recipient has been absent from the workforce
- Opportunities the recipient may have given up during the marriage
- How long it would take the recipient to be self-supportive
- The ability of the higher-earning spouse to pay spousal maintenance
At the Meinerts Law Office, P.A. in Burnsville, Minnesota, we will guide you through the process of determining spousal maintenance. Lawyer Merlyn Meinerts serves clients throughout the south metro area of the Twin Cities, including Eagan, Apple Valley, Burnsville and Shakopee.
Temporary and Permanent Spousal Maintenance
There are two types of spousal maintenance in Minnesota. Temporary or rehabilitative spousal maintenance is paid for a period of time until the recipient completes school or gets back into the workforce. Permanent spousal maintenance is paid for the duration of the recipient's life and is generally awarded to older dependent spouses who do not have the ability to become self-sufficient.
When ordered, spousal maintenance is tax-deductible for the payer and taxable income to the recipient.
Free Consultation With Lawyer Merlyn Meinerts
Give your spousal maintenance issue the careful attention it deserves. Call Burnsville lawyer Merlyn Meinerts at 952.236.4562 or fill out our simple contact form for a free initial consultation.
