Spousal Support Attorney in Columbus, Ohio
When you are getting a divorce, it is important to retain an attorney who understands Ohio divorce laws and the factors used by Ohio courts in making decisions about child custody, child support and spousal maintenance. At the law office of Richard L. Morris, we are pleased to offer experienced legal representation to people throughout Central Ohio. To contact our Gahanna, Ohio, law office, call 614-476-5252.
Determining Spousal Support in Ohio
Although there is no magic formula that defines with mathematical precision the eligibility for or size of a spousal support award, there are several factors that a court must consider when making determinations about spousal support (sometimes referred to as spousal maintenance or alimony). These factors are set out in Ohio Revised Code 3105.18.
Factors set out by the Ohio Code include the parties' income, earning capacity, retirement benefits, education, and assets. The court must also consider factors occurring during the parties marriage, including the standard of living established by the parties during their marriage, the length of the marriage, and any lost earning capacity a spouse has incurred as a result of their marital contributions (e.g. lost earning capacity as a result of being a stay at home mom or dad, or supporting your spouse while he or she pursued higher education).
The court will also consider future ramifications of a spousal support award, including the amount of time it may take a husband or wife to acquire necessary training or education and be able to support him or herself. The Court will also consider the tax implications of an award of spousal maintenance. Finally, the court has discretion to consider any other factor it considers relevant, even if not specifically enumerated in the Code.
Contact an Attorney
To learn more about spousal maintenance, we encourage you to contact Richard L. Morris, Co., L.P.A. for assistance. Our law office handles spousal support matters during a divorce as well as motions for modification of spousal support orders. To contact lawyer Richard L. Morris, call 614-476-5252, or contact us online.
