Spousal Support

NYC Spousal Support Lawyer

Securing Fair Alimony Arrangements in Your Divorce

30%
Average Duration Formula
$203K
Income Cap 2024
500+
Support Cases
95%
Favorable Outcomes

Expert Spousal Support Attorneys in NYC

Spousal support (alimony) can significantly impact your financial future after divorce. Whether you're seeking support or defending against excessive demands, our experienced attorneys protect your interests and ensure fair outcomes based on New York law.

Types of Spousal Support in New York

Temporary Maintenance: During divorce proceedings
Rehabilitative Support: Short-term for education/training
Durational Support: Fixed period based on marriage length
Permanent Maintenance: Long-term marriages or disability
Reimbursement Support: Compensation for career sacrifices
Lump Sum Payment: One-time settlement

Factors Courts Consider for Spousal Support

  • Length of the marriage
  • Age and health of both parties
  • Present and future earning capacity
  • Need for education or training
  • Standard of living during marriage
  • Contributions to the marriage (financial and non-financial)
  • Tax consequences
  • Loss of health insurance benefits
  • Care of children or elderly parents
  • Wasteful dissipation of marital assets

New York Maintenance Guidelines

1Income Cap

Guidelines apply to combined income up to $203,000 (2024)

2Formula Calculation

Based on income differential and whether paying child support

3Duration Guidelines

Percentage of marriage length determines support duration

4Deviation Factors

Courts can deviate from guidelines for specific circumstances

Our Spousal Support Services

Support Calculations

Accurate assessment using NY guidelines and software

Negotiation

Strategic negotiations for fair support arrangements

Modification

Adjusting support for changed circumstances

Enforcement

Collecting unpaid support through legal action

Warning Signs of Unfair Support Demands

Hidden income or assets
Voluntary underemployment
Exaggerated expenses
Failure to seek employment
Cohabitation not disclosed
Misrepresentation of health issues

Protecting Your Financial Future

Spousal support determinations have long-lasting financial consequences. Our attorneys combine deep knowledge of New York maintenance law with strategic advocacy to achieve support arrangements that are fair, sustainable, and legally sound.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does spousal support last in New York?

Duration depends on marriage length: 15-30% of marriage length for marriages under 15 years, 30-40% for 15-20 years, and 35-50% for marriages over 20 years. Permanent support may apply for very long marriages.

Can spousal support be modified?

Yes, support can be modified based on substantial changes in circumstances such as job loss, retirement, illness, or the recipient's remarriage or cohabitation.

Is spousal support tax deductible?

For divorces finalized after 2018, spousal support is not tax-deductible for the payer nor taxable income for the recipient under federal tax law.

What happens if my ex stops paying support?

We can pursue enforcement through wage garnishment, asset liens, contempt of court proceedings, and other legal remedies to collect unpaid support.

Ready to Protect Your Rights?

Get experienced legal representation from NYC's premier divorce attorneys

SPODEK LAW GROUP

TREATING YOU LIKE FAMILY SINCE 1976

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