Aggressive Defense of Your Financial Interests in Divorce
Spousal support — still commonly called alimony by many — is an intensely disputed issue in many Oregon divorces. Judges in the Portland area and across Oregon, including those in the courts of Multnomah, Clackamas, Washington and Wasco counties, have significant latitude to consider factors they believe are relevant and award the spousal support they see fit.
Whether you believe you should receive alimony or anticipate the need to defend against an order to pay unreasonable spousal support after your divorce, we can help. A skilled, experienced lawyer can make a major difference in the outcome, and that outcome could determine your financial future.
Taking All Relevant Circumstances Into Account
Unlike laws governing child support, which include objective guidelines and a base formula, Oregon spousal support laws include references to a vast range of possible factors. General principles to consider include:
- Alleged "fault" or misconduct leading to the divorce will not be considered.
- Factors that can enter the equation include length of the marriage and current incomes of both spouses — but also a host of more subjective items such as both parties' financial needs, earning capacities, health and past contributions to the marriage.
- While most spousal awards are temporary and "transitional" in nature, permanent awards are still issued and the amounts of those awards vary widely.
Performing Essential Research and Building the Best Possible Case for You
If spousal support will be an issue in your case, now is the time to address it thoroughly. At Oliveros & O'Brien, P.C., our attorneys are adept at performing comprehensive financial analysis to:
- Locate any hidden assets or income
- Project financial needs and establish realistic earning capacity for both parties
- Examine tax consequences and other financial complexities
- Ensure the impacts of child support and any proposed property settlement are properly taken into account
- Negotiate lump sum settlements when in our clients' best interests
We build strong cases for our family law clients, and we are always prepared for trial if necessary to defend critical long-term interests. To discuss spousal support and all other aspects of your divorce, please contact our offices in Clackamas today.
