The Proven Fighter...

(231) 929-7744

TELEPHONE CALLS ANSWERED 24/7

Testimonials

Of all my 60 years never in my life did I ever need anyone as much as I needed you in January of 2004.

The mistake I made truly turned my life (as I knew it) inside out, threw me into total helplessness (as far as the legal sustem is concerned and literally made me physically ill from fear (I won't detail that part).

I believe my guardian angel was hovering very close to me when I made the decision to contact you. Your insight, swift decisions, suggestions and demands, along with the ability to persuade me that we could ge tthrough this together plus your special brand of humor can realistically be said to have literally saved my life. Believe me, that was the darkest point in time I have ever experienced and perhaps I would not have come out of it intact were it not for your abilities and your special human qualities.

"Thank You" is just a drop in the huge ocean of indebtedness I feel, now and always. If ever there is any way I can be of assistance to you and/or yours do not hestiate to contact me. Life has a way of thorwing curves when you least expect it.

Once again, Thank You, for every single thing you've done for me!

With Utmost Sincerity and Respect,
DMA

Testimonials

Listening to you at the courthouse today opened my eyes to a lot. . . it's not serious. . . but I couldn't shake the thought. . . your job takes a lot of patience. . .you take alot of wieght on your shoulders from people that do not realize what you do for them. . nor do they appreciate it. I just want you to know that I do see and really appreicate the effort you put forth for me. I thank you with all my heart. God Bless

Charles

Divorce

Michigan Spousal Support / Alimony

At our Michigan family law office, a divorce lawyer may hear many misconceptions about spousal support /alimony. Hopefully this web page, providing information about Spousal Support / Alimony in Michigan, can dispel some of those myths and misconceptions.

We Do Have Spousal Support In Michigan

Some people believe that there is no spousal support in Michigan. That is not true. Spousal support, formerly called alimony, is certainly still awarded in Michigan divorce and Michigan separate maintenance cases.

Spousal Support Can Be Awarded To Either A Man Or A Woman

Some people believe that spousal support can only be awarded to women in Michigan. That is also untrue. If the factors are met, spousal support can be awarded to either party in a Michigan divorce or a Michigan separate maintenance case.

You Do Not Have To Be Married 10 Years To Be Eligible For Spousal Support In Michigan

Some people believe that you have to be married at least ten years to receive spousal support in Michigan. That is also untrue. There is no specific number of years that one must be married to receive spousal support in Michigan. However, in Michigan, spousal support is rarely awarded in a short term marriage.

The Factors Used In Determining A Spousal Support Award

There are several factors that are considered by the Michigan judge when determining whether spousal support should be awarded in a Michigan divorce or a Michigan separate maintenance case. The factors to be considered, evaluated, and determined by the judge are:

  1. The past relations and conduct of the parties.
  2. The length of the marriage.
  3. The ability of the parties to work.
  4. The source and amount of the property awarded to the parties.
  5. The age of the parties.
  6. The ability of the parties to pay alimony.
  7. The present situation of the parties.
  8. The needs of the parties.
  9. The health of the parties.
  10. The prior standard of living of the parties and whether either is responsible for the support of others.
  11. General principals of equity.

In Michigan, there is no specific mathematical formula for determining whether or not spousal support should be awarded. Additionally, there is no specific mathematical formula for determining the amount of spousal support that should be awarded. Finally, there is no specific mathematical formula for determining the length of time that spousal support should be awarded. In Michigan, each case for spousal support is dependant upon the unique factors of the case and the judge assigned to the case.


Our web site is intended to be used for general information only. The purpose of our site is to inform visitors of the nature of legal services offered by Michigan Attorney Gerald F. Chefalo. The information contained herein is not intended as specific legal advise. We caution that use of our web site or attempting to contact our office via e-mail will not establish an attorney-client relationship. An attorney-client relationship is established by the express written consent of Gerald F. Chefalo by means of a retainer agreement.
Copyright © 2005 - 2008 The Law Offices of Gerald Chefalo | All Rights Reserved.