Highland Park Spousal Support Attorney

Legal Guidance for Your Spousal Support Case in Highland Park, IL

At the Law Offices of Jonathan Merel, P.C., we understand that navigating the complexities of spousal support can be emotionally and financially challenging for our clients in Highland Park, Illinois. Our dedicated team of spousal support lawyers is committed to providing compassionate and effective legal representation to individuals facing spousal maintenance issues. Whether you are seeking or contesting alimony, our experienced attorneys are here to protect your rights and advocate for your best interests.

Call (847) 558-1530 or contact us online today to schedule an initial consultation.

What is Spousal Support?

Spousal support, also commonly referred to as alimony or maintenance, is a critical aspect of divorce proceedings in Illinois. It is designed to provide financial assistance to the lower-earning or non-earning spouse to help them maintain a standard of living similar to what they had during the marriage. The court may award spousal support on a temporary or permanent basis, depending on various factors.

In Highland Park, Illinois, the court may order different types of spousal support, including: 

• Temporary Support: Also known as "pendente lite support," this is awarded during the divorce proceedings and is intended to address immediate financial needs.
• Rehabilitative Support: This type of support is awarded to help the recipient spouse acquire the necessary education or training to become self-sufficient.
• Permanent Support: In some cases, the court may order long-term or permanent spousal support, especially in marriages of significant duration or when one spouse cannot achieve self-sufficiency.

How Alimony is Determined in Illinois

Spousal maintenance in Illinois is determined by the court based on several factors outlined in the Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act. These factors help the judge assess the financial needs and circumstances of both spouses.

Here are the key factors the court considers when determining spousal support:

• Income and Property of Each Party: The judge will examine the income and property of both spouses, including any marital assets and liabilities.
• Needs of Each Party: The court will consider the financial needs of each spouse, including their standard of living during the marriage.
• Duration of the Marriage: The length of the marriage is a critical factor. Longer marriages may warrant more extended or indefinite spousal support compared to shorter marriages.
• Contributions to the Marriage: The court will assess each spouse's contributions to the marriage, including financial and non-financial contributions, such as homemaking and childcare.
• Employability and Employability Efforts: The judge will evaluate the education, skills, and employability of each spouse. If one spouse has a significantly lower earning capacity and has made efforts to become self-supporting, it may influence the spousal support decision.
• Health and Age: The health and age of each spouse can impact their ability to support themselves.
• Tax Consequences: The court may take into account the tax implications of spousal support for both parties.
• Agreements Between the Parties: If the spouses have a prenuptial agreement or a postnuptial agreement that addresses spousal support, the court will consider its terms.
• Any Other Relevant Factors: The court has discretion to consider any other relevant factors that may affect the determination of spousal support.

How Can Our Firm Help

Our Highland Park spousal support lawyers at the Law Offices of Jonathan Merel, P.C. are committed to providing compassionate and personalized representation to our clients.

Our first approach is to seek amicable resolutions through negotiation and settlement. We understand that courtroom battles can be emotionally draining and costly. Therefore, we work diligently to reach fair and equitable spousal support agreements that protect our clients' financial well-being and provide stability for their future.

If an out-of-court settlement is not achievable or in our client's best interest, we are fully prepared to litigate in court. With our extensive experience in family law matters and spousal support cases, we present compelling arguments before the court to secure fair judgments.

Lastly, life circumstances can change after a divorce, and spousal support orders may need to be modified accordingly. Whether you are seeking a modification or contesting one, our skilled attorneys can assist you in navigating the legal process and protecting your rights.

Contact ustoday at (847) 558-1530to let us protect your rights and best interests.