Pennsylvania Spousal
We work with our clients to establish a clear picture of marital assets
Pittsburgh Spousal Support/Alimony Lawyers
Pennsylvania courts have three different types of spousal support/alimony that can be ordered during the course of a divorce:
- Spousal support is the financial assistance that one spouse pays to the other following a legal separation and prior to the filing of a divorce complaint.
- Alimony pendente lite is a temporary alimony that is ordered after the divorce is filed but prior to the issuance of a divorce decree.
- Alimony is financial support that is ordered when a final divorce decree is entered by the court.
The amount of spousal support and alimony pendente lite are determined by a statutory guideline.
Unlike child support, spousal support and alimony pendente lite, which all follow a rigid formula that is provided by the state, alimony is determined in large part at the discretion of a family court judge. Of course, it is possible for two parties to reach agreement on alimony through negotiation and submit it to the court for approval.
The attorneys at McCarthy McEnroe Rosinski & Joy in Pittsburgh work closely with our clients to establish a clear picture of marital assets and debts, each party’s earning power, the standard of living while the parties were married and other factors that will play a role in determining spousal support/alimony.
Spousal support/alimony in Pennsylvania can be modified if a significant change in circumstances warrants. It is critical to work with knowledgeable Pittsburgh alimony attorneys who will protect your rights from the outset and work to ensure that any spousal support/alimony ordered is fair.
A PARTY IS ALLOWED TO REQUEST THAT HIS OR HER LEGAL FEES AND EXPENSES BE PAID IN WHOLE OR IN PART BY THE OTHER SPOUSE. THIS MAY BE APPROVED IF THERE IS A LARGE DISCREPANCY IN ABILITY TO PAY OR IF THE COURT DEEMS THAT ONE PARTY NEEDLESSLY PROLONGED THE TIME, AND THUS THE EXPENSE, OF THE DIVORCE PROCESS.
Gaining a Clear Picture of Income and Assets
Determining alimony often becomes one of the more contentious aspects of divorce. It is important to clarify that alimony is not viewed by the court as a means for either party to “get revenge.”
It is not uncommon, however, for a party to attempt to hide income or provide incomplete or inaccurate information regarding income and assets. If necessary, we will work with forensic accountants, tax specialists, business valuators and others who can bring clarity to the total financial picture in order to obtain a fair judgment regarding alimony.
We have a strong track record of helping our clients reach agreement on alimony and other family law issues without the need to litigate. All of our lawyers are trial-tested, however, and we always prepare meticulously in case an agreement cannot be reached through negotiation.
Contact McCarthy McEnroe Rosinski & Joy for an initial consultation
412-471-9900
ball@mmrjfamilylaw.com
Related Video FAQs
How do spousal support, alimony pendente lite, and alimony differ?
How is income determined when calculating spousal support or APL?