Kansas City Spousal Support Attorneys

Understanding Maintenance in Missouri

Spousal maintenance, also known as spousal support or alimony, is a vital aspect of divorce proceedings in Missouri. Ostensibly, the goal of maintenance is to ensure that the lower-earning spouse receives adequate financial support to maintain their standard of living after the dissolution of the marriage. However, the reality does not always reflect this goal, and it may become necessary to enlist the assistance of an experienced spousal support attorney when navigating this aspect of divorce.

At Krigel & Krigel, we help clients in Kansas City and throughout the surrounding areas with all types of divorce-related matters, including maintenance awards, modifications, and termination. Our legal team is here to provide the personalized guidance and dedicated advocacy you need.

Contact us online or call (816) 578-0077 to set up a confidential consultation with one of our Kansas City spousal support attorneys today.

How Do the Courts Determine Spousal Maintenance?

When deciding on spousal support matters, Missouri courts take several factors into account.

These factors include but are not limited to:

• The length of the marriage
• Each spouse's financial resources, including property and income
• The standard of living established during the marriage
• The age and physical and emotional condition of each spouse
• The earning capacity and educational level of each spouse
• The contributions made by each spouse to the marriage, including homemaking and child-rearing responsibilities
• The conduct of the parties during the marriage

Based on these and other factors, the court will decide not only whether to award spousal support but also who will pay and who will receive maintenance, as well as the type of maintenance to be paid and its duration.

Types of Spousal Support in Missouri

In Missouri, there are three primary types of spousal maintenance that can be awarded:

• Temporary Maintenance: Temporary maintenance is provided during the divorce process to help the lower-earning spouse maintain financial stability until a final decision is reached.
• Rehabilitative Maintenance: Also known as “short-term maintenance,” rehabilitative maintenance aims to assist the lower-earning spouse in acquiring the necessary education or skills to become self-sufficient. It is awarded for a specific period, with the goal of allowing the recipient to achieve financial independence.
• Permanent Maintenance: Permanent support may be awarded in cases where an individual is unable to achieve self-sufficiency due to factors such as age, disability, or other circumstances. It is intended to provide long-term financial assistance.

There are no set guidelines or formulas for determining spousal support in Missouri. Courts assess each case individually and consider the unique circumstances of the parties involved. Spouses of any gender can request spousal support, and eligibility may be influenced by factors such as income disparity, earning potential, and financial need.

Duration & Calculation of Alimony Payments

The duration of maintenance payments in Missouri varies based on the specific circumstances of each case. Generally, the length of the marriage plays a significant role in determining the duration of payments. However, there is no fixed standard, and courts have discretion in setting the timeline.

Calculating spousal support payments involves considering various factors and using the court's discretion. The court examines the financial resources of both parties, their earning capacities, and their ability to meet their own financial needs. While there are no official guidelines, consulting with a spousal support attorney can provide valuable insights into the potential amount of support that may be awarded in your case.

Modifying & Terminating a Maintenance Order

Spousal support orders can be modified or terminated in Missouri under certain circumstances. If there is a substantial change in circumstances—such as the loss of a job, a significant increase or decrease in income, or the recipient spouse remarrying—the court may reassess the existing maintenance arrangement.

It is essential to demonstrate a substantial and continuing change in circumstances to warrant a modification or termination. If you wish to request a modification or termination of your spousal support arrangement, we strongly advise you to contact our Kansas City maintenance lawyers.

The Importance of Hiring a Spousal Support Attorney

Navigating the complexities of Missouri’s spousal maintenance laws can be challenging without proper legal guidance. Hiring a skilled spousal support attorney, such as ours at Krigel & Krigel, can provide invaluable assistance throughout the process. An attorney can ensure your rights are protected, help you understand your options, negotiate on your behalf, and advocate for a fair outcome.

Our firm is prepared to advocate for you and your best interests. If you need help with spousal maintenance or any other divorce-related matter, do not hesitate to reach out to our team right away.

You can reach us online or by phone at (816) 578-0077.