
Alimony and Spousal Support
Alimony, which is also known as spousal support, is designed to benefit a spouse in need of financial assistance because of the termination of a marriage. Alimony is available in some cases during or after a divorce case. At its essence, alimony can be awarded after a divorce for a specific time period and until the spouse receiving this type of support becomes self-sufficient. Issues surrounding alimony or spousal support are complex. Our attorneys have the skills and background necessary to assist a client in navigating through an alimony or spousal support case. Pennsylvania law establishes a general formula for determining whether and how much alimony will be awarded in a particular case. The calculation includes a consideration of the income of the parties. The length a marriage is also a factor considered by the court in an alimony case. Unfortunately, there are cases in which a spouse fails to honor a court-ordered alimony or spousal support obligation. Such a state of affairs can cause a true upheaval in the life of the person designated to receive alimony. Our attorneys are adept at enforcing alimony and spousal support obligations for our clients. No matter which side of the alimony or spousal support issue one of our clients may be on, our legal time is tenacious in fighting to protects their rights and interests.Equitable division of marital property (§ 3502)
(b) Lien.--The court is able to impose a lien on the title to party as security to ensure the payment of alimony or any other type of financial award for the other party.
Alimony (§ 3701)(a) General rule.--A Pennsylvania court may allow alimony to a party only if it finds that spousal support is necessary.
A Pennsylvania court reviews certain factors when making a determination regarding alimony. These include:
- Duration of marriage
- Expectancy of any inheritances
- Income of both spouses
To calculate support:
- If there are no minor children, 40% of the difference between the payor’s net monthly income and the recipients’ net monthly income
- If there are minor children, then the income differential is reduced by the amount of child support and typically, that result is multiplied by 30%
Typically, alimony and spousal support awards are combined with child support. Alimony, but not child support, is taxable to the recipient and deductible by the payor.
When you need an attorney to represent you with your legal matters, contact the Law Offices of Michael Kuldiner, P.C. in order to obtain the best results possible in each case. To arrange a consultation, please give us a call at (610) 624-2300 or contact us by submitting the form at top right.