Spousal Support Solutions For Mt. Pleasant
Divorce can become even more complex when spousal support is involved. At Bluestein & Douglas, LLC, our divorce attorneys know this well. Since 1999, we have helped individuals in Charleston County and the surrounding areas achieve equitable spousal support and alimony outcomes.
Our family law attorneys have decades of combined experience. We also have a supportive and knowledgeable office staff to support you. Our primary focus lies in helping clients resolve complex, high-asset and sophisticated family law challenges.
Types Of Alimony In South Carolina
South Carolina law recognizes several different types of alimony. Each type serves a unique purpose. They include:
- Rehabilitative alimony: Helps a spouse gain education or job skills to become financially independent.
- Lump-sum alimony: A nonmodifiable one-time payment or a series of payments over a short period.
- Reimbursement alimony: Compensates a spouse for contributions made during the marriage, such as supporting the other spouse’s education or career.
- Permanent alimony: Paid regularly until the recipient remarries or either spouse dies. It is very rare. It is usually awarded only in long-term marriages where one spouse cannot support themselves.
The type of alimony that the court awards depends on the specific circumstances of your case. When issuing a decision, the judge considers factors such as the length of the marriage, each spouse’s earning potential, and the reasons for the divorce.
Legal Framework In South Carolina
Title 20, Chapter 3 of the South Carolina Code of Laws discusses the state’s spousal support rules. These laws give the family court the authority to determine if alimony is appropriate. Recent legislative changes, such as those discussed in Bill 3831, may influence the determination of alimony. These changes aim to provide clearer guidelines for judges to ensure consistent application of the law.
Factors Considered By The Court In Determining Alimony
When determining alimony, the court considers several factors before issuing its decision. These include:
- Length of the marriage
- Financial resources of each spouse
- Standard of living during the marriage
- Earning capacity of each spouse
- Physical and emotional condition of each spouse
- Marital misconduct
- The asset division arrangement
- Contributions to the marriage
An experienced alimony attorney can help you present a strong case. Our spousal support lawyers will ensure the court hears all factors relevant to your circumstances. We will then advocate tirelessly for an equitable arrangement.
Addressing Complex Financial Situations
High-asset divorces may involve complex financial situations that require careful analysis and strategic planning. Business interests, stock options, real estate and retirement accounts can complicate alimony determinations.
Fortunately, our team of divorce attorneys has experience handling these sophisticated cases. Our approach involves a thorough evaluation of all assets. We work with a roster of financial experts when needed. We develop strategies to protect your financial future, always aiming for a solution that reflects the true value of your marital estate.
How Long Do You Support Your Spouse After A Divorce?
The duration of payments depends on the type of alimony and the specific circumstances of the case. Permanent alimony continues until remarriage or death. Rehabilitative alimony lasts only as long as it takes to become self-supporting.
How Many Years Do You Have To Be Married To Receive Alimony In South Carolina?
There is no minimum number of years of marriage required to receive alimony in South Carolina. However, longer marriages are more likely to result in an alimony award.
How Much Is The Average Alimony Payment?
There is no standard or average alimony payment, as alimony is based on individual circumstances.
Ask About Alimony From A Divorce Attorney
If you are facing a divorce or separation and are concerned about your finances, we urge you to contact us at Bluestein & Douglas, LLC. Spousal support issues can be challenging, but you don’t have to face them alone. Please call us at 843-769-0311 or contact us online to schedule an initial consultation.