Boulder Alimony Attorneys

Let Our Firm Help You Secure Your Entitled Spousal Support

If you are facing a divorce and need help understanding alimony, The Harris Law Firm is here to guide you through the complexities of spousal support. With years of experience in family law, our team of skilled attorneys understands the emotional and financial challenges that come with a divorce. Our goal is to ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive fair treatment throughout the process.

Contact us today at (303) 351-5855 to schedule a free consultation.

What is Alimony?

Alimony, also known as spousal support, is a financial arrangement awarded to one spouse after a divorce or legal separation. The purpose of alimony is to help the lower-earning spouse maintain a similar standard of living after the dissolution of the marriage. This support is not automatically granted but is determined on a case-by-case basis by the courts.

Alimony is typically awarded when one spouse has been economically dependent on the other during the marriage. It is meant to ensure that the dependent spouse does not face undue financial hardship after the marriage ends.

Common Types of Spousal Support in Colorado

In Colorado, there are several types of alimony that may be awarded depending on the circumstances of the marriage and the financial needs of both spouses. Below are the most common types of spousal support in Boulder:

• Temporary Alimony: This type of alimony is awarded during the divorce process and continues until the divorce is finalized. Temporary alimony is designed to help the dependent spouse manage expenses while the divorce is ongoing. It is usually a short-term solution until a more permanent arrangement can be made.
• Rehabilitative Alimony: Rehabilitative spousal support is awarded for a fixed period and is intended to help the recipient spouse become financially independent. This type of alimony is common when one spouse has been out of the workforce for a long period due to raising children or managing the household. The support allows them time to acquire new skills, education, or training to re-enter the workforce.
• Permanent Alimony: Permanent alimony may be awarded in cases where the recipient spouse is unable to support themselves due to age, health, or other long-term circumstances. This type of support is less common and typically occurs when the marriage was lengthy, or one spouse is significantly more financially stable than the other.
• Lump-Sum Alimony: In some cases, the court may award a one-time lump-sum payment instead of ongoing spousal support. This arrangement may be appropriate if both parties agree on a financial settlement, or if the court determines that a lump sum is in the best interest of both spouses.
• Bridge-the-Gap Alimony: This is a short-term support designed to assist a spouse in transitioning to life after divorce. Bridge-the-gap alimony is often used when a spouse needs help with a specific financial need, such as relocating or adjusting to living independently.

Do I Qualify for Alimony?

The decision to award alimony is not automatic. There are several factors that the court will consider when determining whether alimony is appropriate. Some of the key factors include:

• The Length of the Marriage: In Colorado, the duration of the marriage is a critical factor. The longer the marriage, the more likely the court is to award alimony. Short-term marriages may not qualify for spousal support unless other factors are present.
• The Financial Needs of the Recipient: The court will assess the financial needs of the spouse seeking support, including their ability to meet basic living expenses. If the spouse has a significant need for financial assistance and the other spouse is financially capable of providing it, alimony may be awarded.
• The Financial Ability of the Paying Spouse: The paying spouse's ability to provide support is equally important. The court will consider their income, assets, and overall financial situation to ensure that paying alimony does not result in undue hardship.
• Standard of Living During the Marriage: The court will try to ensure that the recipient spouse can maintain a similar standard of living to what they had during the marriage. If one spouse is accustomed to a higher standard of living, this may influence the amount and duration of alimony.
• The Recipient's Age and Health: The age and health of the recipient spouse are also significant factors. If the recipient spouse is older, in poor health, or unable to work due to a disability, this may increase their likelihood of qualifying for spousal support.
• The Recipient’s Earning Capacity: The court will assess whether the recipient spouse has the skills and ability to support themselves. If the spouse is capable of earning income, the court may award rehabilitative alimony or a smaller amount of support for a limited time to help them transition.
• Contributions During the Marriage: The court may also consider non-financial contributions made by the spouse seeking alimony. For instance, if one spouse stayed home to care for children or supported the other spouse’s career, these contributions could be factored into the decision.

How is Alimony Calculated?

In Colorado, there is no strict formula for calculating alimony. Instead, the court uses a discretionary approach to assess each individual case. However, Colorado law provides general guidelines that courts consider when determining the appropriate amount of spousal support. The judge will examine all of the factors mentioned above, and may also consider any agreements made between the spouses during the divorce process.

How Can The Harris Law Firm Help You?

Navigating alimony in a divorce can be challenging, but with the right legal support, you can ensure that your interests are protected. At The Harris Law Firm, our experienced Boulder alimony lawyers are here to assist you with every step of the process. Whether you are seeking spousal support or need to modify or contest an existing arrangement, we can help.

Our team will work with you to thoroughly know your financial situation, provide guidance on how to present your case, and advocate for a fair and just alimony arrangement. We are committed to helping you secure the best possible outcome in your divorce or separation.

Do not hesitate to call us at (303) 351-5855 or reach out to us online.