Spousal Support Lawyers in Hudson Valley

Effectively Advocating for Your Future in Dutchess County

Spousal support, also known as "spousal maintenance" or "alimony," causes more disagreements than any other issue in many divorces. Concerns about money cause fear, stress, and uncertainty about the future. If you are wondering how New York spousal maintenance laws will affect your divorce, call Letterio & Haug, LLP in Beacon, NY. Our Hudson Valley alimony attorneys have nearly two decades of combined experience and extensive knowledge of the law.

Questions about spousal support in NY? Contact our Dutchess County alimony lawyers online or dial (845) 203-0997 to schedule  a consultation.

New York Spousal Support Laws

Also known as "alimony," spousal support is money paid from one spouse to the other after a divorce. While spousal support is often awarded in the divorce decree, payments may start before the divorce is final. Temporary maintenance, also known as pendente lite spousal maintenance, may be awarded while the divorcing couple is going through divorce proceedings. New York uses formulas to determine temporary and permanent spousal maintenance amounts. However, other factors may be taken into consideration, as well.

Factors that influence alimony awards may include:

• The standard of living during the marriage
• The length of the marriage
• The ages of the spouses
• The health of both spouses
• The earning capacities, education, and employment history of each spouse
• Any loss of income as a result of a spouse staying home to care for children
• Any contributions to the marriage made by the receiving spouse
• Any loss of health insurance benefits as a result of the divorce
• Any waste of marital property by either spouse
• Any additional child-related costs

Spousal support may be awarded as durational or non-durational. Durational spousal support is paid for a specific period of time, often to give the receiving spouse time to become self-supporting. Non-durational maintenance is also known as lifetime alimony. Although this is rare, it may be awarded in situations such as when one spouse is older, has an illness, or is unlikely to become self-supporting for another reason.

How To Avoid Alimony in NY

Regarding New York spousal support, the court considers various factors when determining whether to award alimony and the amount to be paid. While there is no guaranteed way to completely avoid alimony, there are a few considerations that could potentially impact the outcome:

• Prenuptial or Postnuptial Agreement: These legally binding agreements can specify the terms of spousal support in NY or even completely waive it. To establish a legally sound agreement that meets your demands and protects your interests, you must speak with an experienced attorney with experience in family law, such as a spousal support lawyer in the Hudson Valley at Letterio & Haug, LLP.
• Mutual Agreement: If both spouses can agree on the terms of their divorce, including the absence of alimony, then this can be included in their separation agreement or divorce settlement. Be sure to speak with an attorney to ensure that sure your divorce agreement conforms with New York laws and upholds your rights.
• Providing Proof of No Financial Need: If the spouse who is seeking to avoid alimony can demonstrate that the other spouse does not require support in order to maintain their standard of living, it may influence the decision of the court.
• Short-Term Marriages: In relatively short-term marriages, the likelihood of being awarded alimony may be lower, as the purpose of spousal support is often to assist the financially dependent spouse in maintaining their lifestyle and becoming self-supporting. The amount for alimony payments may also be smaller based on the length of marriage.
  Keep Track of Your Spouse’s Status: If your ex-spouse remarries or decides to move-in with a new partner, it may affect the need alimony.
• Filing For Fault Divorce: If you have evidence that your ex-spouse committed spousal abuse or adultery, your chances of you being required to pay spousal support may be smaller.

Have Questions About Alimony in New York?

It is essential to consult with a qualified attorney who specializes in family law, such as an alimony lawyer or spousal support attorney in the Hudson Valley. At Letterio & Haug, LLP, we have an extensive track record of success and nearly two decades of legal experience combined. Schedule a consultation so that we may discuss your situation and provide sound advice based on ever-changing laws in New York. Getting professional legal guidance ensures that your rights are protected and that you fully understand your obligations when it comes to alimony in NY. Contact us today.

Tailored Legal Representation From Our Alimony Lawyers in the Hudson Valley

Since so many factors can influence spousal maintenance awards, it is important to consult with an experienced law firm. Our Hudson Valley spousal support lawyers provide individualized legal representation that is tailored to the unique situation. We provide personal attention to every case, and clients will always have access to their managing attorney.

Contact us to arrange a consultation. Located in Beacon, we assist clients throughout Dutchess County, Orange County, Putnam County, and Ulster County, NY.