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How is Spousal Support Calculated in Missouri?

Spousal maintenance, also known commonly as “alimony,” is something that everyone has heard of, but nobody really knows about how the process for determining these awards works. This is one of the more common questions we receive at Coulter Goldberger, LLC.

If you need assistance with your own divorce case, contact our skilled St. Louis County family attorneys. Our team has assisted numerous clients through divorce cases, both simple and extremely complex. We are proud of the accolades our team members have obtained, including a perfect 10.0 Superb rating from Avvo, inclusion on the list of Super Lawyers Rising Stars in 2015, and being named one of the 10 Best Law Firms in Client Satisfaction by the American Institute of Family Law Attorneys™ in 2016.

Have questions regarding an alimony award? Call Coulter Goldberger, LLC for a free consultation at 314-675-1065.

The Calculation Process

First, the court must determine whether it is appropriate to award one spouse an alimony award, including determining whether the spouse requesting could potentially be self-supporting or not. This can include looking at things such as work history, education, and child custody responsibilities.

The court will consider the following factors in determining amount and duration:

  • Financial resources of the dependent spouse
  • Earning capacity
  • Time necessary for the dependent spouse to obtain training or education
  • Standard of living during the marriage
  • Duration of the marriage
  • Assets and debts
  • Conduct during marriage
  • Age
  • Physical and emotional condition
  • Ability for other spouse to provide support

Unlike some states, there is no simple formula or standardized guidelines for alimony payments. Each case is determined on an individual basis based on this extensive list of factors. It’s also important to know that this award is not necessarily permanent, and can be modified by the petition of either spouse for substantial changes in circumstances, such as finding a new job, moving in with a new partner, or getting re-married.

Have more questions regarding alimony? Contact Coulter Goldberger, LLC now!