Spousal Support

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The state of Oregon uses the term spousal support rather than alimony. This support is a common request in divorce proceedings and is classified as spousal support, spousal maintenance or transitional spousal support. During the proceedings, the divorcing parties may agree on one of these options, or the court will order one in the final divorce decree.

Compensatory Spousal Support
Compensatory spousal support compensates, or reimburses, one spouse for the financial amount invested in the other person’s education or financial success. This most often occurs when once spouse worked while the other one went to school for advanced training or education. Several factors determine the amount of compensatory spousal support.

  • the total amount of financial investment
  • the length of time the financial investment was made
  • the length of the marriage
  • the current and future earning potential for both parties
  • how much the investment has already benefited both parties

Transitional Spousal Support
Transitional support provides financial assistance while one spouse gets additional education or training to become self-sufficient. This type of support is temporary and available for a set period, which varies based on the circumstances. The amount of transitional support payments are decided by the court using a variety of factors.

  • the amount of work experience the requester has
  • the amount of education and job training the requester has
  • the amount of time needed to obtain additional training or education
  • who has custody of children and whether they pay child support
Spousal Maintenance
Spousal maintenance is similar to other support options, but it typically applies when the marriage was long and one of the spouses has no way to become self-sufficient. Determining factors influencing the decision to order spousal maintenance include the following.

  • the length of the marriage the ages of the divorcing parties
  • the physical, mental and emotional condition of each party
  • the marital standard of living
  • the amount of income each spouse earns
These definitions are only guidelines, as the courts can use other factors when determining whether to issue a spousal support order. Kuenzi Law LLC can help you accurately evaluate your future financial needs and choose the support option that is right for you.
Let Kuenzi Law LLC  help you identify your needs, build options which address the factors the Court considers, and incorporate what you need as you look to the future.  Whether you want a zealous advocate, or you want to work with your partner to create your own future plan Sandy Kuenzi, Family Law Attorney and Mediator can help.

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