TYPES OF SPOUSAL SUPPORT IN MICHIGAN

by Justin Van Den Heuvel

Whether ordered by the court or agreed upon by you and your spouse, understanding the different types of spousal support that can be awarded in Michigan as well as how they are paid can be critical in your final divorce agreement. At the Van Den Heuvel Law Office, we understand that these issues can seem confusing and complex, which is why we are here to help. Representing Michigan clients on both sides of the table when it comes to spousal support, our experienced family law attorneys are here to help. To learn more about spousal support and other issues of divorce in Michigan, call or contact our office today.

Temporary Spousal Support

The court will often award one spouse temporary alimony during divorce proceedings. This money is used to maintain a standard of living and help pay for the costs of an attorney to litigate the divorce. Temporary spousal support ends once the divorce is finalized and can either be replaced by a different type of spousal support or end payments altogether.

Permanent Spousal Support

Permanent spousal support in Michigan can either be periodic or what is known as “alimony in gross.” Periodic permanent alimony is a set amount of money paid from the higher earning spouse to the lesser earning spouse, usually monthly, for a set period of years or until a triggering event ends the payments. Common triggering events include the passing away of one former spouse or the remarriage of the spouse receiving payments.

Alimony in gross occurs when one spouse provides a lump sum amount to cover the entire spousal support obligation to the other spouse. The couple agrees to a total alimony award that the paying spouse can either give to the receiving spouse in one lump sum or in installments. Once the total sum is paid, the spouses do not send or receive any more spousal support. Unlike permanent periodic payments, alimony in gross is not subject to triggering events and must be paid in full.

Rehabilitative Spousal Support

The court or the couple may also agree to short-term, rehabilitative spousal support, as well. This type of alimony is meant to help the lesser earning spouse obtain the opportunity to receive job training or education that will make that spouse more attractive in the job market. It is meant to help the receiving spouse become financially independent and obtain full time employment. Rehabilitative spousal support is only paid for a set period of time, unlike permanent spousal support which can go on indefinitely.

Call or Contact Our Office Today

Determining which type of spousal support is right for your situation and how it will be paid are two critical decisions in your Michigan divorce and can have a significant impact on your financial well-being. To speak with an experienced family law attorney about your divorce case, call the office or contact us at the Van Den Heuvel Law Office today to schedule a free consultation.

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