St. Louis, Missouri Spousal Support Lawyer
If you are considering a divorce, one issue of concern likely will be spousal support, which we refer to today as maintenance and is still popularly known by the older term alimony. In Missouri, an award of maintenance is not automatic; the party seeking maintenance must prove both an inability to support himself or herself through appropriate employment and that said party lacks sufficient resources, including property, to provide for his or her reasonable needs. In reaching such a decision, the court considers many factors, ranging from each party's relative financial resources, employment or employment prospects, education and ability to retrain or re-enter the workforce, the standard of living during the marriage, the duration of the marriage, the assets of each party and the comparative earning capacity of each party. While conduct during the marriage may be considered, maintenance is not seen as a mechanism to punish marital misconduct.
An award of maintenance may be modifiable or non-modifiable, and may be for a limited duration or even for the life of the party receiving maintenance.
Maintenance is often an emotional issue for both parties. The lesser earning spouse often fears that without maintenance, he or she will soon be without the means of support so that even basic necessities - a home, food, clothing - will be in jeopardy. The greater earning spouse often fears that an award of maintenance will be such a financial burden for such a long period of time that he or she will be unable to earn enough income to support two households.
Divorce and anxiety about personal finances go hand-in-hand. At The Marks Law Firm, L.L.C., we can ease some of those fears by taking time to explain the legal issues, letting you know what to expect and being diligent and thorough in the way we approach our work. Call us at 314-993-6300 to schedule an initial consultation today.
How We Can Help
Crafting a correct award of maintenance and building a persuasive case for maintenance is a complex task that often involves the use of experts, including accountants, financial planners and forensic economists. At the Marks Law Firm, we have handled thousands of cases involving spousal support and will bring that experience and knowledge to work for you in your particular case - whether in support of an award of maintenance or against an award of maintenance. Remember, even when parties agree about maintenance, establishing the proper amount and duration can be a very delicate exercise. As your attorney, The Marks Law Firm will carefully review your financial information and work with experts as needed to make certain that the amount of maintenance you will receive or be required to pay, fairly reflects your financial situation.
Time to Act
Time is of the essence. As soon as you select The Marks Law Firm, L.L.C. to represent you, we will immediately put our considerable experience and resources to bear on your case. The sooner we can review all the necessary information, the sooner we can formulate a strategy for your unique circumstances, helping to ensure the best possible outcome.
Your future is at stake. Make the right call and contact us today at (314) 993-6300. There is no charge for the initial consultation - and the only obligation is the one you have to yourself to gain the best representation possible.
We Practice Throughout the St. Louis Metropolitan Area
For a top notch law firm without the inconvenience of downtown St. Louis or Clayton traffic, call The Marks Law Firm, L.L.C. We practice throughout the St. Louis metropolitan area, including St. Louis County, St. Charles County, the City of St. Louis, Jefferson County, Lincoln County, Warren County, Franklin County, Madison County - Illinois, St. Clair County - Illinois, and Monroe County - Illinois.
Phone consultations and Saturday appointments available.
Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express accepted.
