Michigan Alimony Attorney Ensuring Your Interests Are Protected

Grand Rapids family lawyer assists divorcing couples with spousal support

When you and your spouse divorce, there are a number of decisions you need to make that will have a long-term impact on your quality of life. One of the decisions the Michigan courts generally make on behalf of those involved is whether or not one spouse must provide the other with monetary support, which is also known as alimony or spousal support. At Keener Law Offices PLC, in Grand Rapids, I have extensive experience guiding clients throughout Michigan in divorce actions involving alimony. Whether you are the recipient of support or must pay it, I offer skilled counsel in ensuring an equitable result.

Alimony is one of the most frequently fought-over issues in divorce, and while courts and lawyers strive to split marital assets equitably, “equitable” does not necessarily mean “equal.” At Keener Law Offices PLC, I know the laws governing spousal support and the courts tasked with making support decisions. Whether your divorce is amicable or contentious, I always work to reach a fair agreement between our client and the opposing party.

Michigan attorney experienced in negotiating and litigating alimony agreements

When determining whether or not alimony should be granted, how much should be awarded, and how long it should continue, Michigan judges weigh certain factors, including a couple’s length of marriage, their standard of living during the marriage, the relative income of each individual, and the needs of each spouse. Retaining an experienced alimony attorney can help you convince the court that you need support, increasing the chance that alimony will be awarded. Alternatively, I can also work to convince the judge that your ex-spouse does not need spousal support or needs less than he or she asked for.

In Michigan, there are four types of alimony agreements:

• Temporary alimony. This type of alimony provides support during the divorce action, which may include attorney fees and relevant litigation costs.
• Rehabilitative alimony. Rehabilitative alimony helps a dependent spouse become self-reliant and may end when an ex-spouse has found a job or has completed his or her education.
• Reimbursement alimony. This type of alimony is awarded to the spouse who worked to support the family while the other spouse pursued professional training or career development. It may end or the amount paid may decrease once the spouse has been compensated.
• Permanent alimony. Permanent alimony is given to a spouse who is seriously ill or who has demonstrated economic need. This agreement can be modified due to changing financial needs or other circumstances.

I work with you to determine what kind of alimony is the best for your situation.

Advocate striving for your peace of mind

At Keener Law Offices PLC, I represent clients who are seeking alimony as well as those who will be required to pay it. My clients are often concerned about whether they are required to pay alimony if their circumstances change. Others come to me if they are not receiving the alimony payments specified by the agreement. I can help you present evidence to the court as to why the amount you pay should be decreased or request that the court properly enforce the existing alimony agreement.

Contact an experienced Michigan family law attorney for alimony assistance

At Keener Law Offices PLC, I am dedicated to working toward an equitable alimony result for the clients I represent throughout Michigan. Call me at 616-466-7894 or contact me online to schedule a consultation at my Grand Rapids office.