Spousal support issues that arise during divorce in Pennsylvania are intensely personal and have a direct effect on the future of both parties. Outside of child support and custody, alimony is one of the most important and sometimes contentious issues of divorce.
Contrary to popular belief, alimony is not about sticking it to one spouse over the other; instead, it is designed to bring balance and a sense of fairness to both of the divorcing parties. This is especially the case when one spouse is sure to have a harder time making ends meet after the marriage ends.
Looking at both sides of the coin, here are some basic points to consider when it is time to make decisions about spousal support.
— The higher wage earner should consider whether or not the other spouse contributed to his or her success– The lower wage earner should make certain he or she cannot make ends meet before pursuing alimony– Both parties should consider the effect paying or receiving spousal might have on the children– The lower wage earner should consider whether or not receiving spousal support will impose severe hardships on the paying spouse– The higher wage earner should consider how much of an impact the lack of financial support will have on the other spouse
A little adjustment in the way we think about spousal support can often make these decisions easier on both of the divorcing parties. By remembering the true purpose of alimony and support, which is to even the field and make way for both spouses to start anew, it is possible to cultivate a more positive viewpoint.
To learn more about the various types of spousal support available in Pennsylvania, please review our detailed web page for additional information.
