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An experienced divorce and family law attorney is an indispensable asset in any divorce involving a request for alimony or spousal support in Montgomery County, PA. We understand the issues, put these issues into a realistic context of the divorce proceedings and offer advice based on our substantial experience in this area.
Alimony in Montgomery County, PA
When a Montgomery County divorce is finalized and all issues involving equitable distribution are also finalized, one spouse may be ordered to pay alimony, a monthly payment, to the other spouse after a divorce.
Spousal Support and Alimony Pendente Lite (APL) in Montgomery County, PA
- Spousal Support
Prior to a divorce being finalized, a dependent spouse is also entitled to interim support. When couples decide to divorce, they often separate prior to filing for a divorce. Spousal support is a payment made from one spouse to the other during a separation. When a husband and wife get a divorce in Pennsylvania, the judge presiding in the case has a right to order either party to pay spousal support to the other party.
- Alimony Pendente Lite (APL)
Once a petition for divorce is filed, one spouse may be ordered to pay Alimony Pendente Lite, often referred to as APL. This is a form of alimony that can be awarded during the divorce proceeding. APL is a temporary order of support and lasts until the divorce is final (including any appeals).
How is Alimony Determined?
A court may order a man or woman to provide financial support to their spouse during or after a divorce. The determination and calculation of alimony is a complex matter. There are a number of factors that go into determining whether alimony will be granted. Among these factors are:
- The length of the marriage
- The age and health of the parties
- The earning capacities of each spouse
Alimony is Not Guaranteed in a PA Divorce
Alimony is by no means guaranteed to either party in a divorce and is subject to the discretion of the court. Judges and courts are guided by state statutes and existing case law, but they have tremendous discretion to award or deny alimony. Kevin M. Zlock, a Montgomery County alimony, spousal support and family law/divorce lawyer, has more than twenty years of experience of representing clients with alimony and support issues in the local courts. He has comprehensive knowledge of local rules and procedures and is pleased to offer his invaluable experience to clients.