Divorce is a difficult and emotionally charged process, and one of the most contentious issues is spousal support. If you're going through a divorce, it's important to understand the laws surrounding spousal support in Virginia. The attorneys at Tobias Iszard PC are here to help you navigate the complexities of spousal support.
What Is Spousal Support?
Spousal support is a court-ordered payment that one spouse makes to the other during or after a divorce. It's designed to help the receiving spouse maintain their standard of living after the divorce. The amount of spousal support is determined by a variety of factors, such as the length of the marriage, the financial resources of each spouse, and the earning capacity of each spouse.
Who Has to Pay Spousal Support?
In Virginia, the court will typically order the higher-earning spouse to pay spousal support to the lower-earning spouse. The court will also consider any contributions made by the receiving spouse to the marriage, such as by caring for the children or managing the home. If the court finds that the receiving spouse made significant contributions to the marriage, it may award spousal support.
How Is Spousal Support Calculated?
The court will typically use a formula to calculate the amount of spousal support that must be paid. This formula takes into account a variety of factors, including the length of the marriage, the earning capacity of each spouse, and the financial resources of each spouse. The court will also consider the standard of living enjoyed by the spouses during the marriage and the age and health of each spouse. The court may also consider any other factors it deems relevant.
When Does Spousal Support End?
The court can order spousal support for a set period of time or until certain conditions are met, such as the remarriage of the receiving spouse. The court may also order spousal support to be paid in a lump sum or periodic payments. If the court orders periodic payments, it may also order that the payments be adjusted based on changes in the financial circumstances of the spouses.
Need Help Navigating Spousal Support?
If you are going through a divorce and need help understanding the laws surrounding spousal support, the experienced attorneys at Tobias Iszard PC can help. We understand the complexities of spousal support and can work to ensure that you receive a fair and equitable outcome. Contact us today to learn more about our family law services in Manassas, VA.