You don't have to stand alone.

Our Thurston County divorce lawyers are here to protect you, your children, and your assets.

Call today!  (360) 753-5353

Questions about spousal maintenance in your Olympia divorce?

Talk to an Olympia spousal support attorney today!

Basically, spousal maintenance is what is more commonly referred to as “Alimony” with a different name.

Award of maintenance is based on a "need" and "ability to pay." It is generally intended for a spouse who makes sacrifices for the community, such as foregoing a career to raise children or to put the other spouse through school.

If both partners have co-equal earning power, maintenance is generally not considered appropriate. If maintenance is proper, the general rule of thumb is 1-year of maintenance for every 5-years of marriage, but this varies drastically based on the individual circumstances.

It is more likely to be awarded during the divorce proceedings than after the divorce.

The standard for maintenance can be found under RCW 26.09.090.

The average monthly payments and duration are based on the following:

1. The financial resources of the party seeking maintenance, including separate or community property apportioned to him or her, and his or her ability to meet his or her needs independently, including the extent to which a provision for support of a child living with the party includes a sum for that party;

2. The time necessary to acquire sufficient education or training to enable the party seeking maintenance to find employment appropriate to his or her skill, interests, style of life, and other attendant circumstances;

3. The standard of living established during the marriage or domestic partnership;

4. The duration of the marriage or domestic partnership;

5. The age, physical and emotional condition, and financial obligations of the spouse or domestic partner seeking maintenance; and

6. The ability of the spouse or domestic partner from whom maintenance is sought to meet his or her needs and financial obligations while meeting those of the spouse or domestic partner seeking maintenance.