Here's the bad (or good) news (depending on your perspective): Maryland courts are less and less likely to award alimony (or spousal support) after a final divorce has been granted.

Here's the good (or bad) news (depending on your perspective): there is no way to know if you will get alimony, or have to pay it. There is also no way to know how much you will be awarded (or have to pay) based on any statutory scheme.. Unlike child support, Maryland has no guidelines for alimony or spousal support. Sometimes, the ignorant and unwary are ordered to pay amounts that far exceed the Federal requirements for payment of spousal support. Sometimes, spouses who need and deserve enough money to get on their feet don't get it because they don't ask, or because they are the wrong gender. Far too often, the ignorant and unwary agree to pay "guilt money" or amounts that they can't afford because they don't have the advice and counsel of attorneys who understand Maryland law about alimony or spousal support and give really bad advice.

Sound confusing? It is.

And here's another little-known fact. Maryland courts aren't supposed to issue an order of child support unless and until issues of alimony or spousal support are decided.

Here's the problem. Maryland has three (3) kinds of alimony (or spousal support). For more information about what each kind of alimony means, why and how it is awarded, and whether you have a valid claim for it (or a good reason to object to it and defend against it) visit our Divorce Blog.

Whether you are a committed parent who has honestly decided to stay at home with your children rather than seek prestige and professional advancement, or a spouse who has worked his or her fingers to the bone to allow the other parent to stay home long after he or she could have gone back to work and contributed to the family income, we can help. If you have a divorce that involves alimony or spousal support, CONTACT US TODAY!