Spousal Maintenance/Alimony

New York Spousal Support Arrangements & Modifications

New York State uses the term “Spousal Maintenance” in place of the word “Alimony”. At Law Offices of Sandra M. Radna, P.C, we work closely with you to form a plan for your Spousal Maintenance/Alimony arrangement. Whether we are helping you to negotiate a settlement or advocating for you in a tense legal battle in your Family Law matter, you can trust in our experienced Melville and NYC Family Law attorneys to guide you through.

Protecting Your Rights & Interests

​Balancing your personal needs along with your legal options can seem daunting in the initial phases of your Divorce. Whether you need to request an Spousal Maintenance/Alimony arrangement or are being required to provide payments to your former spouse, Law Offices of Sandra M. Radna, P.C. can provide you with the guidance you need.

To establish a payment schedule that’s fair to both parties, the court reviews:

• The earning potential of each party, including job experience and education
• Child custody arrangements
• Existing disabilities in either spouse which might result in health care expenses
• The duration of your marriage

How Long Do I Pay Spousal Maintenance/Alimony?

The court decides the duration of your alimony arrangement based on the length of your marriage. In the State of New York, the court looks at the number of years you were married and calculates out a percentage that will tell you how many years you’ll send or receive spousal support payments.

New York Courts utilize a sliding scale calculation to determine the proper amount of alimony or maintenance awarded in a divorce. Each situation is unique and requires the skills of an experienced divorce lawyer to help you understand the method used for payment calculations.

What is Temporary Spousal Maintenance/Alimony?

Any financial support given to a spouse during the divorce proceedings is classified as temporary spousal maintenance. This is not automatically granted, as the requesting party must include a Request for Order. Anytime there are financial implications, each party must disclose their income and expenses to the court. These orders are indeed temporary and may be modified during the proceedings.

How Long Do You Have to be Married in NY to Get Spousal Maintenance/Alimony?

There is no set amount of years you are required to be married to qualify for alimony. A New York court will award alimony based on the number of years you were married to your spouse. If the receiving spouse decides to get remarried, then the alimony may be discontinued. However, every scenario is different and depending on the circumstances, a judge may award permanent spousal support.