Columbus Alimony Attorneys

Understanding Columbus Spousal Support Regulations

Alimony, also known as spousal support, is a court-ordered payment that one spouse makes to the other after a divorce. The purpose of alimony is to help the lower-earning spouse maintain the same standard of living they enjoyed during the marriage. Alimony is not awarded in every divorce case, and the amount and duration of alimony payments can vary widely.

At Kemp, Schaeffer & Rowe Co., L.P.A., our Columbus alimony lawyers have been helping clients navigate the complexities of alimony laws in Ohio for over 20 years. We understand how important it is to secure a fair alimony arrangement, and we are prepared to fight for your best interests every step of the way.

Call (614) 665-5833 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our Columbus alimony lawyer today.

How Is Alimony Calculated in Columbus, Ohio?

Unlike child support, there is no specific formula for calculating alimony in Ohio. Instead, the court will consider a variety of factors when determining whether to award alimony and, if so, how much to award and for how long.

Some of the factors the court will consider when making an alimony determination include:

• The duration of the marriage: This plays a role in both the eligibility and potential length of any award.
• The standard of living established during the marriage: The court tries to help the recipient maintain a similar lifestyle after divorce.
• The age, physical health, and emotional health of each spouse: Health issues can affect both the ability to work and the financial needs involved.
• The earning capacity of each spouse: This considers each person's potential income based on education, skills, and experience.
• The education level of each spouse: Factors here can influence job prospects and timelines for self-sufficiency.
• The time and expense required for the lower-earning spouse to acquire the education and training necessary to find appropriate employment: Courts look at how long and costly further education or training may be.
• The income of each spouse: This includes all sources of income, not just wages.
• The assets and liabilities of each spouse: Both debts and property are reviewed for a fair outcome.
• The contribution of each spouse to the education, training, or earning ability of the other spouse: Support during education or career changes is considered.
• The tax consequences of the alimony award: Courts assess potential financial impacts of taxes on both parties.
• Any other factor the court deems relevant: Judges may weigh additional factors if appropriate for the case.

It is important to note that, in Ohio, alimony is not intended to be punitive. The court will not consider any marital misconduct when making an alimony determination. This means that if one spouse cheated on the other, the court will not consider this fact when deciding whether to award alimony or how much to award.

When you consult with our team, we evaluate your unique circumstances and work to present information effectively at the Franklin County Court of Common Pleas, Domestic Relations Division. Having a spousal support attorney Columbus residents trust can make a significant difference in how your financial interests are represented throughout this process. Because the law allows considerable discretion to judges, we provide honest guidance about possible outcomes and help you understand what to expect in local Columbus courts.

Temporary and Emergency Spousal Support During Divorce in Columbus

Beyond the final order, many clients want to know how they can obtain support while their divorce is still in progress. Temporary or emergency spousal support may be available in some divorce proceedings in Columbus, especially when one spouse does not have access to adequate financial resources during the separation period. The court can order temporary support to help pay for housing, utilities, and daily living expenses until a final decision is reached. This is particularly relevant for those concerned about maintaining stability for themselves or their children while the case is pending in the Franklin County Domestic Relations Court.

Temporary support orders are designed to address immediate needs rather than provide a long-term solution. The process to request this type of support may involve filing a motion with the court and providing financial documentation outlining your situation. Working with an alimony lawyer Columbus can help ensure your request is prepared correctly and your interests are clearly represented before the judge. Because procedures can vary from one court to another, having legal guidance from a team familiar with Columbus-area practices can help you move more smoothly through the process.