Buchanan County Alimony Lawyers

Spousal Support in Missouri

Alimony, or spousal support, refers to the financial support provided by one spouse to the other during and/or after a divorce. It is designed to address any economic disparities between the spouses and provide financial stability for the receiving party.

At Kranitz, Sadoun & Carpenter, we assist clients with all aspects of spousal support, or “maintenance,” as it is referred to in Missouri. Whether you are seeking alimony in your divorce, have been ordered to pay alimony in an amount that you feel is unfair, or wish to make modifications to an existing court order, our Buchanan County alimony attorneys are here to help.

Get in touch with us today at (816) 551-2482 or contact us online to set up a confidential consultation with a member of our legal team.

What Types of Alimony Are Available?

There are three main types of alimony, or maintenance, in Missouri:

• Temporary Alimony: This form of alimony is awarded during divorce proceedings to provide financial support until a final decision is reached.
• Short-Term Alimony: Short-term alimony is granted for a specific duration to assist the supported spouse with their transition to financial independence.
• Permanent Alimony: Permanent alimony is awarded in cases where the recipient spouse is unlikely to become self-supporting due to age, disability, or other significant factors.

Sometimes referred to as “rehabilitative maintenance,” short-term alimony is the most common type of alimony awarded in Missouri. Ostensibly, the purpose of short-term alimony is to assist the receiving spouse financially until they are able to obtain employment. Typically, it is awarded when one spouse has stopped working or never worked during the marriage, often to care for young children, manage other household duties, or help the other spouse advance their career or education during the marriage.

How Is Alimony Determined in Missouri?

Each type of alimony—temporary, short-term, and permanent—has distinct features and eligibility requirements. The court assesses various circumstances to determine whether to award alimony, as well as the appropriate type of alimony to be awarded and the amount to award.

Missouri courts consider several factors when determining whether to award alimony. These factors include but are not limited to the following:

• The duration of the marriage
• The earning capacity of each spouse
• Contributions made by each spouse during the marriage
• The standard of living established during the marriage
• The age, physical, and emotional condition of each spouse
• The financial resources and liabilities of each spouse
• Any other relevant factors deemed necessary by the court

If you have questions about alimony and how it is awarded in Missouri, reach out to Kranitz, Sadoun & Carpenter. Our Buchanan County alimony lawyers can help you understand the process and what to expect. We are prepared to advocate for you.

Calculating Alimony in Missouri

In Missouri, there is no set formula for calculating alimony. The court carefully considers the specific circumstances of each case and exercises its discretion to arrive at a fair and reasonable alimony award. If you disagree with the court's decision regarding alimony, you may have options for appealing or modifying the award.

Additionally, it’s important to know that alimony is no longer deductible for the payor and no longer considered taxable income for the receipt under federal tax law. This applies to all divorces finalized after December 31, 2018. We recommend that you consult with a tax professional to understand the specific implications for your situation.

Negotiating Alimony & Legal Recourse

When negotiating the terms of alimony in a divorce settlement or trial, it is advisable to seek legal representation to ensure your interests are protected. A family law attorney experienced in Missouri maintenance cases can guide you through the process, help you assess your rights, and advocate for a fair outcome. If an agreement cannot be reached through negotiation, litigation may be necessary, and the court will make the final determination.

Remember, every divorce case is unique, and seeking personalized legal advice is crucial to understanding your rights and options regarding alimony in Missouri. If you need help with your case, know that the team at Kranitz, Sadoun & Carpenter is here to help. Our firm has been serving the area for more than a century, providing personalized guidance and compassionate counsel to people from all walks of life. We are here to answer your questions and provide the representation you need to move forward.

Call (816) 551-2482 or contact us online to set up a consultation with our experienced Buchanan County alimony attorneys.