Divorce and Alimony

Alimony (spousal support) is awarded based on one of the following situations:

1. 1. A spouse lacks sufficient property to meet his/her reasonable needs;
2. 2. A spouse must stay home with a young child and cannot support him/herself with reasonable employment;
3. 3. A spouse supported his or her education; or
4. 4. The marriage was lengthy and a spouse has little chance of finding employment.

The court considers the length of the marriage, the age of each spouse, health, employment, as well as the standard of living established during the marriage and other factors when establishing alimony.

You should have an attorney help you with all of this.  If money is an issue, see if you qualify for Legal Aid or see if they can recommend someone to help you.  Also, check if there is a law school nearby to where you live; they typically run free/low cost clinics that handle these type cases.  Contact the local Bar Association in your county; they may have a list of attorneys who will take your case "pro bono" (for free) or at least for a reduced fee based on your income/circumstances.  Additionally, google women's support groups in your area, they can usually provide a list of attorneys who can help. Finally, contact your state's Department of Social Services, they may be able to refer you to free legal services.