Boise Alimony & Spousal Support Attorney

Divorce is an undoubtedly emotionally draining process, and other legal issues that come with it definitely add salt to the wound. In some cases, one spouse may qualify to receive alimony from their soon-to-be ex depending on various factors. Alimony, commonly referred to as maintenance or spousal support, refers to payments made by one spouse to the other after a divorce.

It is normal to have questions regarding alimony if you’re considering divorce. What’s more, it is important that you understand whether you’re in a position to receive spousal support or have to pay alimony. Working with a Boise alimony lawyer helps you best answer such questions, and also help you request spousal support if you qualify. At Boise Family Law, we can help you through any process related to divorce, including alimony. Call us today at (208) 943-2904 to learn more about the aspects considered for the alimony award.

What Are The Grounds For Divorce In Idaho?

Idaho is one of the states with straightforward divorce laws. Generally, the state recognizes both fault and no-fault divorces. In fault divorces, a spouse may cite the other spouse’s marital misconduct as the cause of divorce.

The acceptable fault-based grounds for divorce in Idaho are:

• Adultery
• Extreme cruelty (causing bodily and mental suffering to the other spouse)
• Willful desertion
• Willful neglect of the husband to provide for his wife for at least 1 year
• Drug addiction or habitual drunkenness for at least 1 year
• Felony conviction
• Permanent insanity (with that spouse having been housed in a mental facility for at least 3 years before filing for divorce)

Understanding the Spousal Support Calculation Process

Navigating the complexities of spousal support can be daunting. At Boise Family Law PLLC, we aim to demystify the calculation process, helping you understand how support amounts are determined.

Factors influencing spousal support include:

• Length of the Marriage: The duration of your marriage can significantly impact the amount and duration of spousal support.
• Income Disparities: The difference in income between spouses plays a crucial role, especially if one spouse relies heavily on the other's financial support.
• Standard of Living: Courts consider the lifestyle established during the marriage to determine support levels that can sustain a similar quality of life post-divorce.
• Contributions to the Marriage: Non-monetary contributions, such as homemaking or supporting a spouse's career, are acknowledged and can affect spousal support decisions.
• Time Needed for Education or Training: If one spouse needs time to gain employment skills or education, support may be awarded to facilitate this transition.

Understanding these factors can provide clarity and aid in anticipating potential outcomes in your case. Our experienced attorneys are here to work closely with you, ensuring that your interests are represented and that you receive a fair assessment based on your unique situation.

What Warrants Spousal Support Modifications? 

Life is constantly changing, and so are financial circumstances. If you find yourself facing a significant change in income—whether due to job loss, promotion, or changes in your family dynamics—it’s essential to understand how this may affect your spousal support obligations or entitlements. At Boise Family Law PLLC, we can guide you through the process of modifying spousal support agreements to reflect your current situation.

Common situations that may warrant a modification include:

• Significant changes in either spouse's income
• Involuntary job loss or extended unemployment
• Changes in the needs of the recipient spouse
• Remarriage of the recipient spouse or changes in their living situation

Our experienced attorneys are dedicated to ensuring your rights and interests are protected. We will work with you to navigate the complex legal landscape surrounding spousal support modifications. Let's take control of your financial future together.

Frequently Asked Questions About Spousal Support

Have more questions about spousal support? Here are some common inquiries we hear from clients:

• How long will I receive spousal support? This varies based on the specifics of your case, including marriage length and financial circumstances.
• Can spousal support be modified? Yes, changes in circumstances (like job loss or re-marriage) can lead to changes in support arrangements.
• What happens if my ex-spouse refuses to pay? Legal avenues exist to enforce spousal support orders, and we can assist you in pursuing your rightful payments.

For personalized assistance and to explore your rights and options regarding spousal support, contact us today at Boise Family Law PLLC. We are dedicated to providing compassionate and effective legal support through this challenging time.