Spousal Support Lawyer in Kane County

Sugar Grove Attorney for Clients Seeking Alimony

Marriage is not only a romantic union but also a financial one. When a married couple divorces, one of the spouses is often left at a major financial disadvantage. For example, many parents sacrifice educational or career opportunities in order to raise a family. When an individual who has not worked outside the home suddenly finds himself or herself without financial support from a spouse, it can be devastating. Spousal support, also called spousal maintenance or alimony, helps ensure that a lesser-earning spouse can maintain the same or similar standard of living after divorce that they enjoyed during their marriage or until such a time that they can support themselves.

At Ekker Law, P.C. / Steven B. Ekker, Esq., we understand the value of maintenance payments. That is why our experienced Illinois divorce lawyer helps divorcing individuals get the spousal support that they need and deserve. We can also help individuals who are being asked to pay more spousal support than is reasonable or fair. Whatever it takes, we are by your side and willing to fight on your behalf.

Factors Considered by Illinois Courts

Spousal maintenance is not awarded in every Illinois divorce. Instead, decisions about spousal support are made on a case-by-case basis. The court studies the economic and life circumstances of each spouse when deciding whether or not to award maintenance and the amount that maintenance payments will be. The court may consider factors such as:

• The length of the marriage;
• The standard of living established during the marriage;
• Each spouse's income and assets;
• The age, physical health, and emotional well-being of each spouse;
• Each spouse's financial requirements;
• The present and future earning capacity of each spouse;
• Any impairment in a spouse's ability to become self-sustaining;
• The amount of time the lesser earning spouse would need to become financially independent;
• Any non-economic contributions made by a spouse such as contributions as a homemaker or stay-at-home parent;
• Tax consequences of spousal maintenance; and
• Any pre-existing agreements between the spouses such as a prenuptial agreement.

Once a determination has been made as to whether or not maintenance will be awarded to a spouse, the court must calculate the amount the monthly maintenance payments will be as well as how long those payments will continue. There are formulas provided by Illinois law to determine the amount and the duration of maintenance payments that are to be used in most cases, but exceptions may apply. Spousal support orders can be temporary or permanent depending on the circumstances.

Sound Legal Guidance in North Aurora

At Ekker Law, P.C. / Steven B. Ekker, Esq., we understand the financial and emotional turmoil that divorce can cause. Our legal professionals are highly qualified and capable of handling even very complex spousal support cases. Our goal is to protect your rights while finding a solution to divorce disputes which allows you to live the post-divorce life you deserve. Family law attorney Steve Ekker has over 25 years of experience successfully helping divorcing spouses resolve divorce issues through negotiations, or when necessary, litigation.