When a married couple separates by divorce, one individual often provides payment to the other individual. Of course, this form of post-marital support is called alimony for most people. Illinois, and a handful of other states, refer to the concept of alimony as spousal maintenance. The name is somewhat confusing to outsiders, but the actual process is even more complicated. In the state of Illinois, a formula is utilized to determine spousal maintenance payments.
Spousal Maintenance For The Average Divorcee
In many marriages, one spouse makes more money than the other spouse. The difference can be quite large in some cases, and the courts realize this disparity. That’s why alimony, or spousal maintenance, exists. Sometimes, a divorcee needs some financial assistance upon divorce, and the Illinois formula for maintenance covers various situations. Illinois’ formula includes factors like individual income, existing property, and more.
From that formula comes a number, and Illinois uses that number to determine spousal maintenance.
Special Situations Where The Formula Doesn’t Decide Everything
However, the spousal maintenance formula applies to former spouses that earned less than $250,000 combined per year. Individuals that make more money fall into a different category where the formula means less. Judges, during divorce proceedings, can use other factors to determine the spousal maintenance amount. A given judge can determine the figure by considering things like prior agreements, standard of living during the marriage, and more.
Why A Chicago Maintenance Attorney Is Necessary Here
Finding a maintenance attorney in Chicago is vital during a divorce. Whether an individual earns $50,000 or $500,000 per year, an attorney can help in this situation. Such attorneys argue on behalf of their clients during the spousal maintenance determination phase. High earners may benefit from the help of a Chicago maintenance attorney the most, but lesser earners can reap benefits as well. In the end, lacking an attorney could cost a given person quite a bit of money post-divorce.
Gordon & Perlut, LLC is a family law and divorce law practice located in Chicago, Illinois. The firm’s lawyers excel at spousal maintenance cases and believe in finding a fair solution for each and every client.
