Like many others who go through a divorce, you are probably concerned about how your choice to end your marriage will affect your financial health. The decisions made during this process will directly impact you for years to come, and it’s crucial to secure terms that allow you to have a strong and stable future. One of the ways you can find this security is through a spousal support order.
Not everyone who goes through a divorce is eligible for spousal support. However, if you think you are eligible for these payments, you would be wise to fight for the full amount you need and deserve. Before you agree to terms or start negotiating on the terms of your divorce order, you may find it beneficial to learn as much as you can about alimony and whether you are eligible.
Who gets alimony?
One of the main factors in determining whether a person will get alimony is his or her income. If you earned significantly less than your spouse, it is likely you could get this type of spousal support. While some Oregon couples are able to negotiate a fair agreement regarding spousal support, you may have to fight for support in court. Some of the factors a court may consider when determining whether to grant this support include the following:
- The ages of both spouses and their ability to earn an income
- The income discrepancy between both spouses
- How long the lesser-earning spouse has been out of the workforce
- How long the marriage lasted
- The length of time it might take for you to reenter the workforce
- The standard of living enjoyed by both parties during the marriage
- Whether the higher-earning spouse can support you and still pay for other obligations
Every situation is different, and even if you think you have a rightful claim to spousal support, this does not necessarily mean you will get it. You may find it beneficial to work with an experienced attorney who can help you understand how you can fight for the financial future you deserve.
Your long-term interests
There is a lot at stake when you go through a divorce. You may feel tempted to simply agree to terms so that it can be over, but it is in your interests to be careful and thoughtful about everything, including an alimony order. An assessment of your case can help you understand what legal options could be available to you regarding financial support.
