If you are in the process of getting a divorce and your husband has been the primary or only breadwinner in the family for some time, you may be looking to obtain spousal support. Spousal support allows you to continue to live the lifestyle you have become accustomed to while giving you time to obtain an education or the skills you need in order to earn a living on your own. However, not everyone is able to get spousal support. If you earn a decent living on your own, you may not be eligible. When you are looking to obtain this type of support, a hearing will be scheduled. Here are a few of the questions you should be prepared to answer at a spousal support hearing.
If You Have Made An Effort to Find Employment or Obtain an Education
In most cases, the courts want you to begin to work or obtain an education if you are seeking out spousal support. They do not want spousal support to be your sole source of income, as they want you to start earning an income on your own. There are a few exceptions to this, such as if you are disabled, have recently had a child, or are the caretaker for a disabled child. However, as a general rule of thumb, you will be asked what effort you have made to find employment or obtain an education that helps you find gainful employment.
Questions About Your Income
If you are already working, the courts will ask numerous questions about your current income and earning potential in the future. You may be asked what you currently earn if there are opportunities to work overtime or pick up more hours than you currently work and what your potential for growth is in the future. All of this information is used to determine how much support you need both now and into the future.
What Your Reasonable Needs Are
Lastly, you will be asked what your reasonable needs are. The courts will not expect your spouse to pay all of your living expenses. However, they will want to ensure that your reasonable needs are met with spousal support. As such, they will look at what you earn and can provide for yourself versus what your reasonable needs are. Most reasonable needs include shelter, food, utilities, education expenses and health insurance. If you are asking for more than you need or asking for help paying for something the courts deem unreasonable, they may reduce the amount you are seeking.
If you are looking to obtain spousal support, local divorce attorneys can help. They can help you determine if you are eligible and prepare you for the hearing, letting you know exactly what questions may be asked. Contact a local divorce attorney today to find out if you may be eligible for spousal support.
Share20 August 2017
My name is Noni. When I was in college, I was hit by a car while crossing the street. My life was never in danger, but I did break a few bones and had a lot of huge medical bills. I was hoping I wouldn't have to get involved with an attorney, but unfortunately, it came down to that. I used a family friend who is an accident attorney to get some compensation. A few years later, I was hit while riding my bike and had to go through the same process. I suppose I'm lucky to be alive. And it's thanks to accident attorneys that I have been able to put my life back together. I started this blog as a way to let others know just how much lawyers can help you in certain situations.