Delaware Spousal Support & Alimony

We Can Help You With Spousal Support Petitions

We can help analyze your situation to see what type of spousal support award, if any, should be incorporated into a divorce agreement. We will help you negotiate all of the terms, including:

• If any alimony should be paid while the divorce is being finalized
• If spousal support should be waived in light of certain assets being awarded as part of property division
• How long the payments will continue after the divorce is granted
• Under what conditions spousal support should terminate, including if the receiving party begins cohabiting with a new partner or remarries

Another important factor to consider is that spousal support may be deductible from income tax for the payor and is required as “included income” for the payee. In some cases, including high-asset divorce cases, intricate negotiations may be necessary to determine the most equitable and favorable settlement that takes into account these tax implications.

Because spousal support is very flexible, we will work hard to limit your liability. We often find that we can arrive at creative solutions that benefit our clients using alternative methods of dispute resolution such as mediation, negotiation, or collaborative law. However, if we cannot arrive at fair terms, we will present arguments at trial clearly outlining what limits and amounts you believe should be placed on any spousal support that may be awarded.

Spousal support is never clear cut or a definite, infinite entitlement. Even after it is awarded, if you or your ex-spouse’s experience a substantial change of circumstances, such as a loss of income or job, alimony can be modified. Our legal team is available to help you whenever you need us, whether you are looking to establish spousal support or need to modify your agreement.