“What will life look like financially after my divorce?” 

This is one of the first—and most important—questions you’ll face when you separate from a spouse because the income that once supported one household must now support two. Because every situation is unique, it’s important to know your rights and to have top-notch advocacy in your corner. 

Unlike many other states, Missouri does not have a formula for determining the amount of spousal support to be paid to a former spouse. Missouri courts evaluate spousal support on a case-by-case basis. However, there are several statutory factors Missouri courts consider when determining whether an order of spousal support is appropriate:

• The length of the marriage;
• Whether a spouse is unable to support himself or herself through appropriate employment and how long it may take for a former spouse to obtain the skills or training necessary to find appropriate employment;
• Child custody arrangements;
• The financial resources available to each spouse;
• The earning capacity of each spouse;
• The standard of living established during the marriage;
• The conduct of the parties during the marriage; and
• Any other factor the court determines to be relevant.

There are also different types of spousal support the court may award, including modifiable maintenance, non-modifiable maintenance and maintenance in gross (lump sum maintenance). Having an experienced divorce attorney explain how each different type of spousal support may impact you and your family’s finances is essential, regardless of whether you choose to negotiate a resolution to your case or go to trial. 

Whether you are a stay-at-home spouse who placed your career ambitions on hold to raise a family or the higher-earning spouse who has been the primary breadwinner, we have the background and experience necessary to help.