Ending a marriage requires the resolution of various financial issues. For Minnesota parents, these issues typically include expenses associated with the care and upbringing of children. For many people, spousal support is a top priority, especially for those who sacrificed education or a career to stay home full-time while raising a family.
Being well-informed is the key to ensuring that a spouse receives all that he or she is entitled to in a divorce. Every state has its own guidelines regarding issues such as property division, child custody and spousal support. It is helpful to seek counsel before heading to court to clarify applicable laws and to gain assistance in preparing a formal support request.
What was the standard of living during marriage?
A spouse is eligible to receive spousal support in Minnesota when a lack of marital property may prevent him or her from maintaining a similar lifestyle to which he or she was accustomed in marriage. Many spouses must further their education or seek employment following a divorce. When a spouse has no means of self-support or existing means are insufficient, the court may order spousal support.
How long does a spousal support order remain in effect?
A Minnesota family court judge may order spousal support on a temporary or (in limited circumstances) permanent basis. Numerous factors influence the court’s decisions, such as the income level and potential earnings of the spouse requesting support, how much time is needed to obtain education or work that enables the person seeking support to become financially independent, as well as the duration of the marriage and how much each spouse contributed to the household financially. Legal guidance may be sought at any time throughout a divorce, especially if complications arise regarding spousal support or other financial matters.
