Pascagoula Spousal Support Lawyer

Pascagoula Spousal Support Attorney

Divorce is already an emotionally challenging experience, but add the headache of figuring out spousal support into the mix, and the situation can turn from bad to worse. That’s why you need an experienced Pascagoula spousal support lawyer by your side.

At the Taylor & Cox Law Firm, we’re here to help you make sense of spousal support. With a compassionate approach balanced with strategic precision, our Pascagoula divorce lawyers are here to help you understand your rights and obligations when it comes to spousal support in Mississippi.

What Is Spousal Support?

Spousal support, also known as alimony, is financial assistance that one spouse may be required to pay to the other after a divorce, and it’s intended to help the lower-earning spouse maintain a reasonable standard of living following the separation.

The amount of spousal support and the length of time it needs to be paid can vary quite a bit, but it’s important to note that spousal support isn’t automatically awarded in Mississippi, and the court considers many different elements before deciding whether it’s appropriate.

Types of Spousal Support

Not all alimony is created equal, and depending on the circumstances, spousal support can be a short-term boost, a long-term commitment, or something in between.

There are two primary types of spousal support in Mississippi, and they are:

• Permanent Alimony. This type of support is given out in cases where one spouse may not be able to support themselves financially after the divorce, often the result of either a long-term marriage or a major health issue.
• Temporary Alimony. Temporary support might be awarded during divorce proceedings to help one spouse meet their financial needs until the divorce settlement is made final.

The court could also award rehabilitative alimony, which is intended to help a spouse become financially independent by covering expenses for things like job training or education for a limited time.

How Does the Court Decide on Spousal Support?

In Mississippi, judges have a lot of discretion when figuring out whether to award spousal support. There’s no strict formula involved, so the court looks at many different factors when determining if one spouse should provide financial support to the other. These factors can include:

• Length of the marriage. Longer marriages tend to result in a higher chance of spousal support being awarded.
• Financial needs and abilities of both spouses. The court considers the income, assets, and overall financial situation of both spouses.
• Health and age of the spouses. A spouse who is older or in poor health might be more likely to receive support, especially if they can’t work or if they have limited earning capacity.
• Standard of living during the marriage. If one spouse was used to a higher standard of living, the court might order spousal support to help them maintain it.
• Contributions during the marriage. This includes both financial and non-financial contributions, like caring for children or maintaining the home.

At The Taylor & Cox Law Firm, we understand the complicated nature of spousal support cases in Pascagoula, and we’re here to guide you through every step of the process. With a compassionate approach balanced with strategic experience, our team is ready to fight for your rights and optimize your goals to secure the most favorable outcome.

Modifying or Terminating Spousal Support

In some cases, the paying spouse can seek to modify or terminate spousal support if there’s been a significant change in circumstances, like a change in income, health, or living situation, but you’ll need to take action. Here’s what you need to know about adjusting your alimony arrangement:

• Modification. To request a modification of spousal support, the requesting spouse must show that a substantial change in circumstances exists. For example, if the spouse paying support loses their job or suffers from a disability, they may request a reduction.
• Termination. Spousal support can be terminated under certain conditions, like if the receiving spouse remarries or cohabitates with another person in a romantic relationship.

If your financial situation has changed, don’t wait for your bank account to dwindle before making the decision to do something about it. Modifying or ending spousal support requires legal action, and The Taylor & Cox Law Firm is here to help you make sure your alimony arrangement still makes sense.

FAQs

What Happens to Alimony If My Ex Files for Bankruptcy?

Unlike credit card debt or medical bills, spousal support doesn’t disappear in bankruptcy. If your ex files for Chapter 7 or Chapter 13, they can’t wipe out their alimony obligation; it’s considered a priority debt. If they fall behind, you may need to go back to court to enforce the payments. At The Taylor & Cox Law Firm, we can help make sure you still get what you’re owed, even if your ex is in financial trouble.

Can I Pay My Spousal Support in Something Other Than Money?

While cash is king when it comes to alimony payments, some creative solutions might work if both parties agree. In some cases, courts have allowed payments through property transfers, lump-sum buyouts, or even covering specific expenses like mortgage payments. If you want to explore alternative options, our legal team can help negotiate a fair arrangement.

What Happens If My Ex Disappears and I Don’t Know Where to Send Payments?

If your ex vanishes, don’t assume you’re off the hook. You’re still responsible for payments, but the court won’t expect you to send money into the void. First, document your attempts to locate them, whether through mail, email, or known contacts. If they’re still unreachable, you may need to pay into an escrow account until the court gives further instructions. Ignoring the issue could lead to penalties, so reach out to The Taylor & Cox Law Firm for help.

Can I Go to Jail for Not Paying Spousal Support?

Technically, yes, but jail isn’t the first step. If you fall behind on payments, the court could issue fines, garnish your wages, or seize assets before resorting to jail time. However, if you repeatedly ignore court orders or refuse to pay even though you have the means, you could be held in contempt and face legal consequences. If you’re struggling with payments, don’t wait. Reach out to The Taylor & Cox Law Firm to discuss a modification before things escalate.

Taylor & Cox Law Firm: We Can Help

If you’re facing a divorce and are concerned about spousal support, it’s important to understand your rights. At The Taylor & Cox Law Firm, we carefully assess your situation and provide you with clear, straightforward advice that can help you understand what to expect while advocating for a fair and equitable solution. There’s no need to face this alone. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.