Divorce is very common today. However, this fact doesn’t make it any easier when you’re dealing with all the ramifications and emotions of the process. Hiring the right alimony attorney Greensboro NC provides can ease your stress and anxiety.
Barbara Morgenstern and Ashley Bennington of Morgenstern & Associates have over 40 years of combined experience. Moreover, both have extensive credentials and are board-certified specialists in family law. Additionally, U.S. News & World Report ranks the firm in the top tier for the Greensboro area.
How To Find The Right Lawyer To Handle Your Case
Finding an attorney you trust is crucial for a favorable outcome. A divorce is an emotional time requiring you to rely on your lawyer. Moreover, you may need to discuss intimate details so you should feel comfortable with your attorney.
Additionally, you’ll need a lawyer with experience in handling divorce. A tax attorney may be good at navigating tax laws, but won’t understand the full legal implications of your divorce.
Next, you’ll need a local lawyer who is familiar with the proceedings in your county. Often, a local lawyer knows your spouse’s lawyer and judge. Knowing the personalities of the other parties can assist your lawyer in making certain decisions about your case.
So, how do you find a lawyer meeting all these qualifications? Similar to searching for other types of professionals, the internet is a very useful tool. After all, you found us in your search for alimony attorney Greensboro NC. Although, it’s imperative to extend that research. Both Martindale-Hubbell and Avvo are great resources for finding an attorney. Moreover, your local bar association can also make referrals for the specific area of law you need.
Alimony Is Only One Aspect Of Your Divorce Requiring Experience
Typically, alimony is only one potential component of the divorce process. Generally, family law lawyers handle many matters relating to divorce. Often, when couples decide to divorce, they own property together and have children. Many laws dictate the dissolution of marriage, distribution of property, and custody of children.
Every agreement and court decision will have long-term consequences. You need an experienced lawyer who understands the entire process while paying attention to the details. The attorneys at Morgenstern & Associates are compassionate, experienced lawyers who can help you achieve a favorable outcome.
Is There A Difference Between Alimony And Spousal Support?
Just about a century ago, the law did not allow women to own property. Moreover, many women did not have access to employment. Thus, courts awarded alimony to divorcing women to support women after a divorce.
Over the years, cultural changes coupled with advances in women’s rights slowly changed. More women sought higher education and increasing employment opportunities arose.
However, it wasn’t until 1979 that courts officially recognized men’s right to access support after a divorce. A landmark case, Orr vs. Orr, challenged this notion that only men had to provide support. The court agreed changing alimony to spousal support.
Today, the courts can deem either spouse dependent based on many factors including:
- Financial needs
- Marital standard of living
- Current employment income
- Each party’s income-earning abilities
- Debt obligations
- Necessary expenses
Generally, the amount of spousal support is dependent upon factors such as income and the length of the marriage. Furthermore, the court has wide discretion in determining the amount making those online alimony calculators highly inaccurate.
FAQs To Help You Find The Best Alimony Attorney Greensboro NC Has To Offer
Statutes and case law affecting your alimony are complex and confusing and outcomes vary based on the circumstances. To help you sort through some issues, we’ve compiled a list of commonly asked questions.
How Long Will I Receive Alimony?
The length of time and amount of alimony varies due to the particulars of each case. In Guilford County, mediation is required if you file a claim for alimony. Generally, cases settle in mediation.
Additionally, alimony ends under the following conditions:
- Dependent spouse remarries
- Receiving spouse initiates a marriage-like relationship
- Either spouse passes away
In addition, alimony can take the form of monthly payments or a lump sum payment.
What Is Post-Separation Support?
Sometimes, a judge will award post-separation support. Similar to alimony, the intent is to support the dependent spouse until the judge issues the final alimony order. Once the judge issues an alimony order, post-separation support automatically stops.
What Should I Do If My Spouse Continually Pays Late?
Court orders, such as making alimony payments, are legal obligations issued by a judge. Disobeying a court order is a serious matter that can put you in contempt.
If your spouse continually makes late alimony payments, you can file a motion with the court. Judges have a wide area of discretion in issuing punishments. The court may require a lump sum payment, order transfer of property, or withholding of wages.
When Should I Call A Lawyer If I’m Thinking About Divorce?
Today. If you’re considering a divorce, your spouse may be thinking of it as well. Hiring an alimony attorney Greensboro NC families rely on can help you protect your rights.
Morgenstern & Associates has the attributes you need to handle your divorce:
- Experience
- Knowledge
- Compassion
- Affordability
- Professional honors
Moreover, talking with us will not commit you to a single course of action. However, knowing the consequences and ramifications of your choices can help you decide what to do.
Call us at 336-203-9110 to set up an appointment to discuss the details of your case.