Annapolis Alimony Lawyers
Divorce is often an emotionally and financially complex process, and one of the most contested aspects is alimony, also known as spousal support. Whether you are seeking alimony or being asked to pay, the experienced Annapolis alimony lawyers at Oliveri & Larsen are here to help.
We provide strategic legal counsel to ensure our clients receive fair treatment under Maryland law. Our firm understands that every case is unique, and we work closely with you to protect your financial interests and secure the best possible outcome.
What Is Alimony in Maryland?
Alimony is the financial support one spouse pays the other during or after a divorce. Unlike child support, which follows specific state guidelines, alimony is determined based on various factors unique to each case. Alimony aims to help a lower-earning spouse maintain financial stability following a divorce, especially if they sacrificed career advancement to support the marriage.
While Maryland courts do not automatically grant alimony, they may award it if one spouse demonstrates financial need and the other can pay. Alimony can be awarded for a limited period or indefinitely, depending on the circumstances.
Types of Alimony in Maryland
Maryland recognizes three main types of alimony:
- Pendente Lite Alimony: This is temporary alimony awarded while the divorce proceedings are ongoing. It aims to help the lower-earning spouse maintain financial stability until a final divorce settlement is reached. However, pendente lite alimony does not guarantee that long-term or permanent alimony will be awarded in the final divorce decree.
- Rehabilitative Alimony: This is the most common type of alimony in Maryland. It is awarded for a set period to allow the receiving spouse time to gain the education, training, or work experience needed to become financially independent. For example, if one spouse needs to go back to school or develop new job skills, rehabilitative alimony may be granted for the duration of that process.
- Indefinite Alimony: This type of alimony is awarded in cases where the recipient spouse is unlikely to become self-sufficient due to age, disability, or a significant disparity in living standards after divorce. If one spouse would face an “unconscionable disparity” in their post-divorce quality of life compared to the other, indefinite alimony may be granted.
How Do Courts Determine Alimony in Annapolis?
Unlike child support, which is calculated using a standard formula, alimony in Maryland is determined case-by-case. Courts consider multiple factors to assess whether alimony is necessary and, if so, how much should be awarded. The key factors include:
- Length of the Marriage: Generally, the longer the marriage, the more likely alimony will be awarded.
- Financial Needs and Resources: The court evaluates each spouse’s income, assets, debts, and overall financial standing.
- Earning Capacity: If one spouse has been out of the workforce for an extended period, their ability to earn an income will be considered.
- Age and Health: A spouse’s physical and mental health can impact their ability to work and become self-sufficient.
- Contributions to the Marriage: Non-financial contributions, such as being a stay-at-home parent or supporting a spouse’s career, can influence alimony decisions.
- Standard of Living: The court may try to ensure that both spouses can maintain a standard of living similar to what they had during the marriage.
- Reasons for the Divorce: While Maryland is a no-fault divorce state, marital misconduct (such as adultery or abuse) may still be considered when determining alimony.
How Long Does Alimony Last?
The duration of alimony depends on the type awarded and the case’s specific circumstances.
- Pendente lite alimony ends when the divorce is finalized.
- Rehabilitative alimony lasts for a specific period, typically several years until the receiving spouse becomes financially independent.
- Indefinite alimony continues until the court determines that it is no longer necessary or the paying spouse successfully petitions for termination due to changed circumstances.
Can Alimony Be Modified or Terminated?
Yes, alimony can be modified or terminated under certain circumstances. If circumstances change, such as a significant increase or decrease in income, remarriage, or retirement, either party can request a modification. If the recipient spouse remarries, alimony payments typically end. In cases of indefinite alimony, the paying spouse can petition to have payments reduced or terminated if the recipient’s financial situation improves significantly.
If you believe your alimony order needs to be modified, our experienced Annapolis alimony lawyers can assess your situation and help you file a petition with the court.
What if a Spouse Refuses to Pay Alimony?
If a spouse fails to comply with a court-ordered alimony payment, the recipient can take legal action. Maryland courts can enforce alimony through:
- Wage Garnishment: The court can order the paying spouse’s employer to deduct alimony payments directly from their paycheck.
- Liens on Property: A lien may be placed on the paying spouse’s assets, preventing them from selling or transferring property without satisfying their alimony obligations.
- Contempt of Court Proceedings: The court can hold the non-paying spouse in contempt, which could result in fines or even jail time in extreme cases.
If you are not receiving the alimony payments you are entitled to, our team at Oliveri & Larsen can take legal steps to enforce your rights.
Do You Need a Lawyer for an Alimony Case?
Alimony cases can be complex, requiring strong legal advocacy to ensure a fair outcome. Whether you are requesting alimony, contesting a claim, or seeking modifications, having an experienced attorney on your side is essential. At Oliveri & Larsen, we provide skilled legal representation to:
- Assess Your Financial Situation: We evaluate your income, assets, and future financial needs.
- Negotiate Fair Alimony Awards: We work to ensure that alimony payments are fair and reasonable.
- Handle Modifications & Enforcement: If circumstances change, we assist in modifying or enforcing alimony orders.
Why Choose Oliveri & Larsen
At Oliveri & Larsen, we are dedicated to protecting the rights of our clients in alimony cases. Our firm is known for:
- Extensive Experience: Decades of experience handling alimony and divorce cases in Maryland.
- Strategic Representation: We develop customized legal strategies tailored to your unique situation.
- Client-Focused Approach: We prioritize your needs and keep you informed every step of the way.
Our legal team understands that alimony disputes can be stressful and financially draining. That is why we work tirelessly to ensure our clients receive fair treatment and achieve financial stability after divorce.
Contact the Annapolis Alimony Lawyers at Oliveri & Larsen Today
If you are facing an alimony dispute, Oliveri & Larsen is here to help. Do not navigate alimony issues alone. Contact the Annapolis alimony lawyers today for a consultation and take the first step toward securing your financial future. Call 410-295-3000 or contact us online. Located in Annapolis, Maryland, we serve clients in Ocean City, Anne Arundel County, Baltimore County, Baltimore City, Calvert County, Harford County, Howard County, Queen Anne’s County, St. Mary’s County, Worcester County, Kent County, and