Understanding Spousal Support (Alimony) in Wisconsin: What Women Need to Know
Divorce can bring significant financial changes, and for many women, securing spousal support (alimony) is essential to maintaining financial stability post-divorce. In Wisconsin, alimony is awarded based on several factors to ensure fairness and financial security for the lower-earning spouse. If you’re navigating a divorce in Milwaukee, understanding your rights regarding spousal support can help you make informed decisions about your future.
What is Spousal Support (Alimony) in Wisconsin?
Spousal support, commonly referred to as alimony, is a court-ordered financial payment made by one spouse to the other after a divorce. Unlike child support, which follows a strict formula, alimony is determined on a case-by-case basis. Its purpose is to help the lower-earning spouse maintain financial stability, especially if they sacrificed career opportunities during the marriage.
Types of Alimony in Wisconsin
Wisconsin recognizes several types of spousal support, depending on the financial circumstances of both parties:
Temporary Maintenance: Granted during the divorce process to help the lower-earning spouse cover immediate expenses until a final settlement is reached.
Limited-Term Maintenance: Awarded for a set period, often to allow the recipient to gain financial independence through education or job training.
Indefinite Maintenance: Reserved for long-term marriages (typically 20+ years), where one spouse may never be able to achieve the same standard of living as they had during the marriage.
How Wisconsin Courts Determine Alimony
Unlike some states, Wisconsin does not use a fixed formula to calculate alimony. Instead, the court considers multiple factors, including:
Length of the marriage (Longer marriages are more likely to result in alimony awards.)
Each spouse’s earning capacity (Income, education level, work experience, and employment prospects.)
Contributions to the marriage (Including homemaking, childcare, and supporting a spouse’s career advancement.)
Age and health of both spouses (A spouse with health issues or nearing retirement may receive more support.)
Property division and financial resources of each spouse (If one spouse received significant assets in the divorce, alimony may be lower.)
How Women Can Strengthen Their Alimony Case
If you are seeking alimony, presenting a strong case is essential to securing the financial support you deserve. Here’s how:
Document Your Financial Contributions: Whether you were a stay-at-home mother, managed household finances, or supported your spouse’s career, gather evidence of your contributions.
Show Your Financial Need: Provide detailed records of your monthly expenses, debt obligations, and anticipated post-divorce income to demonstrate your financial needs.
Consult a Skilled Divorce Attorney: A legal expert like Women's Divorce & Legal Clinic can help you present a compelling case and advocate for fair spousal support terms.
Modifying or Terminating Alimony
Alimony is not always permanent. Wisconsin courts allow for modifications if there is a significant change in circumstances, such as:
The recipient spouse remarries or cohabitates with a new partner.
The paying spouse experiences a job loss or financial hardship.
The recipient spouse becomes financially self-sufficient.
Take Control of Your Financial Future
Navigating spousal support negotiations can be overwhelming, but with the right legal guidance, you can secure a fair settlement that provides financial stability. Jaime Young is dedicated to helping women protect their financial well-being during and after divorce.
Book a Free Consultation Today
Don’t leave your financial future to chance. Schedule a free consultation with Women's Divorce & Legal Clinic today to discuss your spousal support case and get expert legal advice tailored to your unique situation. Click here to book your free consultation now.
