Tacoma Spousal Support
Spousal Support in Tacoma and Pierce County
Spousal support, also known as alimony, provides financial assistance to a spouse during or after a divorce. In Tacoma and Pierce County, the courts approach spousal support as a way to ensure fairness and financial stability for both parties. Washington State family law, specifically Statute RCW 26.09.090, outlines the factors courts consider when determining spousal support.
If you are navigating a divorce in Pierce County, understanding your rights and obligations related to spousal support is crucial. Whether you’re seeking alimony or contesting a support request, having knowledgeable legal representation can make all the difference.
After reviewing this helpful content, contact our law office for a free consultation with one of our experienced Tacoma divorce lawyers.
Types of Spousal Support
Spousal support in Washington State can take different forms depending on the unique circumstances of the divorce. The most common types include:
- Temporary Spousal Support:
Temporary support is awarded during the divorce process to help the lower-earning partner cover immediate financial needs, such as housing, and living expenses. This type of support ends once the divorce is finalized. - Rehabilitative Spousal Support:
Rehabilitative support is designed to provide financial assistance while the recipient spouse pursues education, job training, or other efforts to become financially independent. This type of support usually has a defined duration and may require the recipient to meet specific milestones. - Long-Term or Permanent Spousal Support:
Permanent support is reserved for situations involving long-term marriages or where one spouse cannot achieve financial independence due to age, health, or disability. This form of alimony may continue indefinitely or until a significant change in circumstances occurs.
Factors Courts Consider for Spousal Support
When determining whether to award spousal support, courts in Pierce County rely on the guidelines set forth in RCW 26.09.090. These factors help ensure that decisions are equitable and tailored to the specific needs of each party:
- The Financial Resources of Each Party:
The court examines the ability of the spouse seeking support to meet their financial needs independently. This includes considering any marital property awarded to them during the divorce. - The Length of the Marriage:
Longer marriages are more likely to result in spousal support awards, as one spouse may have made significant contributions to the household or sacrificed career opportunities. - The Standard of Living Established During the Marriage:
Courts aim to maintain a similar standard of living for both parties after the divorce, within reasonable financial limits. - The Age and Health of Both Spouses:
A spouse’s physical and emotional health may impact their ability to work and earn an income, making support necessary. - Contributions to the Marriage:
Non-financial contributions, such as raising children or supporting the other spouse’s career, are considered when determining support. - The Paying Spouse’s Ability to Pay:
The court evaluates whether the higher-earning spouse can afford to pay spousal support while meeting their own financial obligations.
Modifications to Spousal Support
Spousal support orders are not always permanent and can be modified when circumstances change significantly. Either party can request a modification, but they must provide evidence to support their claim. Common reasons for modifying spousal support include:
- A Change in Employment:
If the paying spouse loses their job or experiences a significant reduction in income, they may petition the court for a reduction in support payments. - Improved Financial Circumstances:
If the receiving spouse gains new employment or experiences a financial windfall, the paying spouse can request a reduction or termination of alimony. - Health Issues:
Medical conditions or disabilities that affect either spouse’s ability to work may warrant a review of the spousal support arrangement. - Completion of Rehabilitative Goals:
Once the recipient spouse completes their education or training and becomes self-sufficient, rehabilitative support may no longer be necessary.
Our Pierce County family law attorneys can guide you through the modification process and ensure that the new arrangement reflects current financial realities.
Spousal Support Enforcement
If a spouse fails to comply with a spousal support order, legal action may be necessary to enforce payment. Courts in Pierce County have several tools to ensure compliance:
- Income Withholding Orders:
The Tacoma court can direct the paying spouse’s employer to withhold a portion of their wages and send it directly to the receiving spouse. - Contempt of Court:
A spouse who willfully refuses to pay alimony may be held in contempt of court by a judge, resulting in penalties such as fines or even jail time. - Asset Seizure:
Courts may authorize the seizure of bank accounts or other assets to cover unpaid support. - Property Liens:
A lien may be placed on the paying spouse’s property to secure payment of overdue spousal support.
Our Tacoma spousal support attorneys can assist in enforcing court orders to ensure you receive the support you are entitled to.
Spousal Support FAQ
- Am I eligible for spousal support?
Your eligibility depends on several factors, which may include your financial situation, the length of your marriage, and your ability to become self-sufficient over time. Consulting an experienced WA State alimony attorney can help clarify your options. - How long does spousal support last?
The duration of support depends on the type of support awarded. Temporary support ends when the divorce is finalized, rehabilitative support has a defined duration, and permanent support may continue indefinitely under certain circumstances. - What happens if my ex-spouse refuses to pay alimony?
Courts use enforcement mechanisms, such as wage garnishment and contempt proceedings, to ensure compliance. If your spouse won’t pay, contact your lawyer for guidance. - Can spousal support be terminated if the recipient remarries?
In most cases, spousal support obligations end when the receiving spouse remarries or enters into a new domestic partnership. - Can divorcing couples agree on spousal support terms without court intervention?
Yes, couples can negotiate their own spousal support arrangements. However, these agreements must be approved by the court to ensure fairness and enforceability.
Property Division and Its Impact on Spousal Support
Before awarding spousal support, courts must address the division of marital property. Washington is a community property state, meaning assets and debts acquired during the marriage are generally divided equally. However, property division decisions can impact the need for spousal support.
For example, if the receiving spouse is awarded significant marital assets, such as real estate or retirement accounts, the court may reduce the amount of spousal support. Conversely, if the paying spouse retains most of the financial resources, alimony may be necessary to achieve equity.
Resources for Tacoma and Pierce County Residents
Residents of Tacoma and Pierce County can access valuable resources to navigate spousal support and other family law matters:
- Pierce County Superior Court Family Law Division: Offers forms, filing instructions, and FAQs for family law cases.
- Washington Courts Family Law Resources: Provides statewide forms and procedural guidelines for family law cases.
- Pierce County Courthouse Locations: Details on local court services and locations.
Why Choose Our Tacoma Spousal Support Attorneys?
Navigating spousal support requires experienced legal representation. Our Tacoma family law attorneys offer:
- Customized Strategies: We tailor our legal approach to meet your unique needs and circumstances.
- Comprehensive Support: From initial consultations to court proceedings, we handle every aspect of your divorce, including spousal issues.
- Transparent Communication: We keep you informed throughout the process, providing honest, clear advice.
With years of experience in Pierce County family law, our attorneys are dedicated to securing equitable outcomes and ensuring your financial stability.
Schedule Your Free Consultation
Spousal support can be a contentious and complex issue, but you don’t have to face it alone. Our Tacoma alimony attorneys are here to guide you through every step of the process, from determining eligibility to enforcing or modifying support orders.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and take the first step toward resolving your spousal support case. With trusted legal representation, you can protect your financial future and move forward with confidence.