Trustworthy Legal Representation for Spousal Support Matters in Oregon
Spousal support is an amount of money paid by one spouse to the other to help them meet their needs after the marriage has been dissolved. Spousal support is frequently misunderstood as its application is not automatic in every case like child support.
This type of support can be paid by either the husband or the wife, or it may not be ordered at all. Understanding how spousal support in Oregon is handled will help you to know what to expect when you are going through a divorce.
Whether you are frightened that your divorce will leave you single and needing employment outside of the home for the first time in many years or frightened that you will not be able to meet all of your obligations on your single income, spousal support is a financial arrangement intended to help you establish your independence and transition out of your marriage.
Transitioning out of your marriage is hard enough. Please contact Pacific Cascade Legal to consult with a spousal support attorney in Portland today.
What are the Types of Spousal Support in Oregon?
There are three main categories of spousal support that may be considered in your specific case: transitional, compensatory, and maintenance. While they are all considered spousal support, it is good to know the differences.
Transitional Support
This type of support is typically temporary in nature and is given to help one spouse get the education or training they will need to reenter the job market. You’ll typically find this type of spousal support only in short or mid-length marriages.
Compensatory Support
This is the least common type of spousal support. It is given to help make up for significant contributions (typically financial) during the marriage or divorce. For example, if one spouse pays for the education of another prior to the divorce, the one who paid may be awarded compensatory support.
Maintenance Support
This type of spousal support can go on indefinitely and is usually reserved for long term marriages that are ending. It is most commonly found when one spouse was a stay at home parent or there is a major gap between the earnings of the spouses.
How is Spousal Support Determined in Portland, Oregon?
Unlike child support, there is no set formula that judges must follow when issuing spousal support. There are, however, a number of factors that judges look at when considering whether or not to issue spousal support. The most significant factors are:
- Marriage Duration – The shorter the marriage, the less likely that there will be spousal support issued.
- Health – The health of each party can be considered when deciding spousal support.
- Age – The age of each spouse will be a contributing factor.
- Earning Capacity – This is one of the most significant factors involved in this process.
- Needs for Entering Workforce – If either party requires training or education prior to entering the workforce, this will be a significant factor in determining spousal support.
- Other – Any other financial considerations or tax considerations.
Which Spouse Gets Spousal Support?
In Oregon, spousal support is potentially available when the following criteria are met:
- Your spouse earns more than you
- You need additional funds to help provide for yourself and your children
- You spent a significant portion of your life caring for your family as a homemaker or a medical caretaker
How Long Do You Have to Be Married to Get Spousal Support in Oregon?
In Oregon, there is no required duration of marriage to be awarded spousal support. Because there are different types of spousal maintenance, one party may be required to make monthly payments to the other or forced to pay one lump sum. The type and duration of any spousal support awarded will depend on specific factors of the divorce and will have predetermined conditions that will end the support.
If you believe you should receive spousal support, you need to talk to a Portland spousal support lawyer right away. At Pacific Cascade Legal, our divorce advocates will fight for you and your future.
Contact a Spousal Support Attorney in Portland Today
If you are facing divorce, do not hesitate to get an experienced advocate on your site to ensure that you receive or pay a fair amount of spousal support. Pacific Cascade Legal is prepared to fight for your rights so that you can focus on a brighter future. Request your initial consultation today to learn how we can help!
Call (503) 573-5566 or reach out to us online today to speak with a Portland spousal support attorney at Pacific Cascade Legal.