4 Reasons Women Should Ask for Spousal Support

Although most women have a job outside the home, those who are divorcing should consider asking for spousal support in the settlement.

Since men usually make more money than women, and women are more likely to get custody of the couple’s children, they may need additional financial help. If you’re not sure about whether to ask for spousal support, here are four reasons you should.

Care of Household

A determining factor for alimony in many divorces is the amount of time each spouse spent with their children and contributions to their marriage. Since traditionally women assume the roles of caretakers of the children and household, that could be in your favor.

If you can prove to the court that you were the primary caretaker of your children and that you had the responsibility of caring for the household, then you should receive alimony.

How long the court will require your ex-spouse to pay it will depend on the length of the marriage and whether you quickly remarry.

Standard of Living

Many divorces significantly impact a woman’s income and her ability to live the same lifestyle she had during the marriage.

In addition, suddenly having only one paycheck coming into the household can make it difficult to pay rent or mortgages, children’s expenses, and other bills on time.

Fortunately, the courts will often take into consideration the quality of life you had in the marriage and what it will be like on your own. An attorney from CLW Lawyers can provide the advice you need about asking the court for alimony payments.

Years of Marriage

If you and your spouse were together for several years, then you may receive spousal support from the court. Sometimes, couples who have been married for decades will suddenly split up for many reasons, including an affair.

If your partner was unfaithful to you, then you may be able to collect alimony. The amount you’ll collect will depend on many factors, including the length of the marriage. It’s possible that you could receive support payments for several years after a divorce.

Time to Improve Situation

Some women may receive temporary alimony until they can improve their financial situations by finding better employment.

If they don’t have marketable skills, they can choose between vocational training or going back to school for their degrees. All while receiving support.

By showing the court that you’re trying to improve your situation, they may order your ex-spouse to pay support for as long as you need it. After completing training and finding a better job, the support may only last a few more weeks until you’re in a more secure financial situation.

Unless you want to cut off all ties to your ex-spouse due to abuse, then you shouldn’t forego spousal support until you sit down and assess your financial situation. Depending on your location, it could be a shock to realize how much you’ll need to make to maintain your lifestyle.

Also, speak to your attorney before deciding to ask for alimony in the divorce settlement. They can give you advice on how much to seek and how to receive it.

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