There is nothing inherently wrong with the financial disparity between couples. Many couples just starting out may not be on the same page in their careers, education, or earnings. While income inequality may not be important at the beginning of your relationship, will you still feel that way after getting married?
The highly sought Salt Lake City alimony attorney, Emy Cordano, has years of family law experience. If you are thinking of divorcing your spouse and have questions about Utah spousal maintenance, contact our knowledgeable legal team today.
What Are the Deciding Factors for Alimony in a Utah Divorce?
Alimony is awarded based on need. According to Utah law, spousal maintenance involves several different factors. Your judge will decide if alimony should be granted, the amount, and duration based on the following elements:
- After distributing property, will your spouse have enough assets generating income to provide for their needs?
- Is your spouse gainfully employed?
- Did your spouse in any way contribute to the household? Did they raise the children, clean, and keep the house?
- Did your spouse contribute financially to your education, training, or vocational skills to help you increase your earning potential?
- Has your spouse ever turned down a promotion or job opportunity to benefit you?
- Are opportunities for your spouse to find gainful employment limited by advanced age or illness?
- How long was the marriage?
- Did either spouse misuse marital property? Did a spouse destroy, conceal, or fraudulently use marital assets?
- Is there any wrongdoing by a spouse during the marriage, like adultery?
The court considers the self-sufficiency of your spouse and the lifestyle they are accustomed to during the marriage when deciding on whether to award alimony and how much to award.
If you earn significantly more than your partner and decide to marry, it is likely your marriage will continue to be monetarily imbalanced. If you are thinking about divorce, there are a few things to keep in mind.
Why Your Spouse’s Prolonged Unemployment Is Not a Reason to Deny Alimony
The award for alimony is genderless. If your spouse has been unemployed or underemployed for the length of the marriage, it is highly likely alimony will be granted. What you agreed to during your marriage will affect you in a divorce.
In today’s climate, there may be numerous spouses out of work due to the pandemic. If you are considering filing for divorce and your spouse cannot work due to the consequences of COVID-19, the chances are good you will be on the hook for spousal support during and after the divorce proceedings.
Contact Our Salt Lake City Alimony Attorney Today
When a spouse refuses to contribute to the marriage, the ensuing financial disparity can strain a union. If you are contemplating ending the marriage due to your spouse’s refusal to work, it is important that you speak with an experienced alimony attorney in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Emy Cordano has more than 22 years of experience in Utah courts. If you have concerns about paying alimony or receiving alimony, our knowledgeable team will work tirelessly to represent your best interests and protect your future. Schedule a consultation today to discuss your unique marital circumstances by clicking here or calling (801) 901-8159. You may also text us at 801-821-8561.