Alimony/Spousal Support Attorney Serving Anne Arundel County, Maryland

When the storm of divorce or separation rearranges your life, you need a steadfast advocate who understands your plight and is willing to fight for your needs and best interests. That's where Kathleen M. Kirchner Attorney At Law steps in. With 15 years of experience as a family law attorney, Kathleen is well-versed in the intricacies of alimony and spousal support laws. She's not just an attorney; she's a compassionate ally who will stand by your side, offering relentless support through your most challenging times. 

Alimony, also known as spousal support, is a periodic payment made from one former spouse to the other following a divorce. Its purpose: to provide the recipient spouse with financial support and encourage them to become self-sufficient.

Kathleen M. Kirchner Attorney At Law is committed to providing comprehensive legal services in this area, ensuring that you receive the support you need during this difficult period. 

Determining Types and Amounts of Alimony

When it comes to determining the type and amount of alimony awarded, several factors are taken into consideration by the court to ensure fairness. These factors include:

• The length of the marriage.

• The financial situation of both parties.

• The standard of living that was established during the marriage.

• The contributions made by each party to the well-being of the family.

• The age and health of the parties involved.

• Their financial needs and resources.

• Any agreements that may have been reached between the spouses.

In most cases, rehabilitative alimony is awarded, which provides support for a specific period to allow the dependent spouse to become self-supporting. This is the most common type of alimony.

However, there are rare instances where the recipient spouse may face challenges in making reasonable progress toward becoming self-supporting or where there is a significant disparity in living standards between the spouses. In such cases, indefinite alimony may be awarded to ensure the well-being of the dependent spouse. 

The amount of alimony awarded can vary greatly depending on the specifics of each situation. There isn't a one-size-fits-all approach, but rather a court-determined amount based on statutory and other factors.

Kathleen's comprehensive knowledge of these factors empowers her to provide her clients with a customized strategy tailored to their unique circumstances. 

It's also crucial to understand that the tax consequences of alimony payments have changed significantly in recent years. Kathleen stays abreast of these changes to ensure her clients are fully informed. Since January 1, 2019, alimony is no longer deductible for the payer and is not considered income for the recipient — a notable shift from prior legislation. 

Enforcement and Termination of Alimony

If one party fails to comply with the terms of the alimony award, enforcement can be sought through contempt proceedings. Contempt proceedings involve legal actions taken against the non-compliant party to ensure they fulfill their obligations. This can include penalties such as fines or even imprisonment. 

Furthermore, alimony may also be modified or terminated under certain circumstances.

For instance, if either party passes away, the alimony obligation ceases. Additionally, if the recipient of alimony remarries, the court may terminate the alimony payments. Furthermore, the court may deem termination necessary for fairness and equity based on the specific circumstances of the case. 

Kathleen understands the ins and outs of alimony awards and is here to provide essential guidance. Whether you need help enforcing an alimony award or seeking modifications, we will provide strong support and zealous advocacy throughout the legal process. 

The Importance of Legal Advice and Representation

The alimony amount you pay or receive can have a significant impact on your financial well-being. It's crucial to seek legal counsel from an experienced family law attorney like Kathleen M. Kirchner Attorney At Law, who will fight on behalf of your best interests and secure the arrangement that favors all family members involved. 

Alimony laws can be complex and confusing, and it is essential to have an experienced attorney by your side to guide you through the process. Kathleen has a deep understanding of alimony laws and will work tirelessly to protect your rights. If your ex is putting up a fight against paying alimony, or if you feel like you are being unfairly treated in the determination of alimony, Kathleen will negotiate on your behalf to reach a fair and reasonable alimony agreement with your former spouse. 

Kathleen M. Kirchner Attorney At Law, with its primary base in Anne Arundel County, Maryland, serves clients throughout Queen Anne's County, Calvert County, Prince George's County, and Howard County. Regardless of where you're located within these counties, you can rely on Kathleen's relentless support and her commitment to ensuring quality legal services are accessible to all.