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Will I Have to Pay Alimony?

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Alimony, or spousal support, is the one-time or ongoing payment of money to a dependent spouse following the end of a marriage. The subject of the continued payment to a former spouse can create a great deal of tension when a couple divorces. If you are facing the end of your marriage, you may have questions about whether you will have to pay alimony.

Courts Have Broad Discretion

Courts in Nevada have a great deal of latitude when it comes to ordering alimony. Specifically, a court may award to either spouse “as appears just and equitable”. Some of the factors that the court must consider include:

  • The duration of the marriage;
  • The age and health of each spouse;
  • The physical and mental condition of each spouse as it pertains to their financial condition and ability yo work;
  • The couple’s standard of living during the marriage;
  • The income and earning capacity of each spouse;
  • The financial condition of each spouse;
  • The nature and value of each spouse’s property;
  • The contributions each spouse has made to the other’s property;
  • The career of the spouse seeking alimony before the marriage;
  • Contributions of the spouse as homemaker;
  • Specialized education or training received by each spouse while married;
  • How community property has been awarded to the spouse seeking alimony.

All of these factors allow a court to cast a wide net in making its ruling regarding alimony. There is no one thing that a court looks at and no reliable formula that can help you estimate what a court will order you to pay. Nevertheless, an experienced family lawyer knows how to best advocate for your interests and defend you when it comes to a potential alimony obligation.

Does Your Spouse Want to Seek Training or Education?

A separate category of alimony exists to “rehabilitate” a spouse’s ability to become self-supporting. A court can award a spouse money that is designed to help that spouse attain the evaluation, education, or training that helps them find a job or advance in their career. The idea is that this money will help the other spouse become self-sustaining by reentering the workforce or increasing their income.

Family Lawyers at Viloria, Oliphant, Oster & Aman L.L.P.

Alimony is a contentious and high stakes issue when a marriage ends. If you need help navigating the courts and resolving the issues that accompany a divorce, contact Viloria, Oliphant, Oster & Aman, L.L.P. Our lawyers are smart, hard-working professionals with a reputation of excellence. Let us help you protect your legal rights during your family law case and move forward. Contact Viloria, Oliphant, Oster & Aman L.L.P. at (775) 227-2280 to schedule a consultation or contact our office through our website.

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