Spousal support, also known as alimony, is often a source of contention between spouses in a North Carolina divorce. It consists of monetary payment made by the more financially-advantaged spouse to the spouse who earns less or who is totally dependent on his or her partner. This payment is based on the idea of helping the disadvantaged spouse meet his or her reasonable needs and expenses and to maintain the standard of living enjoyed during the marriage. It can also be impacted by a history of marital misconduct by either spouse during the marriage.
You and your spouse can come to an agreement on your own about this issue. It may also be part of a valid prenuptial agreement which the court will honor as long as it finds the agreement to be fair. If the two of you cannot agree on this issue, it will proceed to court where the judge will ultimately make a decision about it. Having an experienced attorney who can guide you through this issue, whether through negotiation or litigation in court, is vital. At The Nesmith Firm, we have concentrated our practice on divorce and family law issues for years and have built a strong track record of successful results. Our firm is dedicated to providing you with attentive care and strong advocacy.
Reach out to The Nesmith Firm at (704) 741-7363 or through our online request form to book a consultation with our Charlotte spousal support attorney about your alimony case.
Spousal Support in North Carolina
Spousal support can be a complicated issue involving many factors. As a dependent spouse, you must demonstrate that you need the financial support of your spouse to meet expenses and maintain the lifestyle you had during the marriage. The issue will also be impacted by your spouse’s ability to pay once his or her own reasonable expenses are met. If these factors are established as being met, the next question will be how the support will be paid and at what amount.
Spousal support can be paid in the following ways:
- In a lump sum
- In monthly payments
- Through a transfer of a property, possession, or asset
- Through the withholding of a spouse’s income/wages
