Rockville Spousal Support Lawyer
A Trusted Family Law Professional in Montgomery County, MD
At Bortmes Legal Services, LLC, we offer comprehensive support to individuals navigating the intricacies of spousal support in Rockville and the surrounding counties. Attorney Bortmes can clarify all alimony or spousal support aspects, from calculations to modifications or enforcement.
Whether you seek support during a divorce, need to pursue or contest post-divorce alimony, or have another alimony-related issue, we stand ready to provide the practical and effective assistance you need. Attorney Bortmes can apply her decades of professional experience to your case.
Understanding Spousal Support & Alimony in Rockville
While often used interchangeably, spousal support and alimony serve distinct purposes. Spousal support is typically awarded during the divorce process, whereas alimony is a post-divorce agreement intended to maintain a similar quality of life for the lower-earning spouse.
Unlike some aspects of divorce, these types of support are not automatic. The court must evaluate each case’s circumstances and grant spousal support or alimony at the judge’s discretion. If financial support is requested during a divorce or afterward, the requesting spouse must demonstrate their need and justify the terms sought.
Types of Spousal Support & Alimony in Maryland
Maryland courts recognize different types of support depending on individual circumstances and the goals of the support arrangement. These can include the following:
Temporary: Awarded during the divorce process to help a financially dependent spouse maintain stability until the divorce is finalized.
Rehabilitative: The most common type in Maryland, rehabilitative alimony provides short-term support to help a spouse become self-supporting. This may include assistance for job training, education, or reentry into the workforce.
Indefinite: Granted in rare cases when one spouse cannot reasonably become self-sufficient due to age, health, or other significant factors or where a substantial disparity in living standards exists that would be unconscionable without support.
Understanding which type of alimony applies to your situation is essential. We can evaluate your case and guide you through the process.
What Factors Determine Spousal Support in Rockville?
Maryland courts consider several factors when determining whether to award spousal support and, if so, in what amount and for how long.
Length of the marriage: Longer marriages often result in higher and longer spousal support orders due to the increased financial interdependence of the spouses.
Financial needs: The court evaluates each spouse’s financial situation, including income, expenses, and debts, to assess whether one requires support to maintain their standard of living.
Earning capacity: The court considers each spouse’s ability to earn income, including their education, skills, work experience, and capacity for self-sufficiency.
Contributions: Contributions as a breadwinner, homemaker, or caretaker of children are all weighed. Non-financial contributions are just as significant as financial ones.
Age and health: Each spouse’s physical and mental condition may play a role, mainly if one party cannot work due to age or health issues.
Divorce circumstances: Fault-based grounds for divorce, such as adultery or abuse, may influence the court’s decision on spousal support.
When seeking or contesting support, our attorney can assess your financial situation, prepare strong evidence, and present your case effectively to the court. We can also help you seek or contest modification to or enforcement of a standing court order. Attorney Bortmes can guide you through the process, from the initial petition to navigating negotiations or court hearings.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Your First Step Toward Peace of Mind Begins Here
Fill out the form or call (301) 771-1606 to get started today!
Our Office Hours:
Monday – Friday l 9 am to 5 pm
Saturday – Sunday l Closed
Follow Us: