Alimony & Spousal Support Attorneys in Michigan

Alimony, often called spousal support, is a legal obligation one spouse may have to pay another following a divorce. The purpose is to address economic disparities that result from the marriage and its dissolution. A court may award support when one spouse lacks sufficient property or income to maintain a reasonable standard of living after the marriage, while the other spouse has the ability to pay.

Michigan law gives judges broad discretion in awarding support. Unlike child support, there is no fixed formula. Courts evaluate each case individually and may order payments in several forms. Whether you are pursuing alimony or responding to a claim, you must understand how the law applies to your situation and how your financial future may be shaped.

Determining the amount and duration of alimony involves many factors. A longer marriage, limited earning capacity of one spouse, health issues, and the standard of living during the marriage tend to increase the likelihood of support. Conversely, a short marriage or a recipient spouse who is able to work may result in limited or no support.

Support may be:

• Temporary, during the divorce process to maintain stability
• Rehabilitative or time-limited, to allow one spouse to gain skills, education, or employment
• Long-term or permanent, in cases where one spouse cannot reasonably become self-supporting
• Lump-sum, where a one-time payment in cash or property replaces ongoing payments

From there, support orders may be modified or end automatically, such as when the recipient remarries or either party dies. Because the rules are complex and outcomes vary widely, careful legal planning is essential.

After a support order has been entered, either spouse may seek modification if circumstances change significantly. Examples include a job loss, disability, dramatic increase in the recipient’s income, or remarriage. The right to modify may be limited if the divorce agreement states it cannot be changed.

If you are required to pay support but cannot, failure to comply may trigger wage garnishment, interception of tax refunds, license suspension, or even contempt of court. On the receiving side, if support stops or decreases unfairly, you must act promptly to enforce your rights.

At our firm, we assist clients in every phase—negotiating support at the outset, preparing for hearings, filing modification motions, or responding to enforcement actions. We help you protect your rights and reduce future risks.

Alimony decisions affect your financial future for years. Without skilled advice, you may accept a settlement that leaves you exposed, or pay far more than you should. At Mihelich & Kavanaugh, PLC we provide:

• A comprehensive review of your financial situation, assets, liabilities, and post-divorce needs
• Strategic guidance on whether to pursue, defend, or adjust support claims
• Coordination with accountants, valuation experts, and tax advisors
• Representation in negotiations, court hearings, and enforcement or modification proceedings

Our goal is to ensure your support outcome aligns with your goals, protects your future, and stands up under Michigan law.

If you are going through a divorce, facing a financial claim, or need to modify or enforce a support order, the attorneys at Mihelich & Kavanaugh, PLC are here for you. We’ll review your situation, explain your options, and help you move forward with clarity and control.

Call our office today or complete our secure online contact form to schedule a consultation. Let us help you achieve a support arrangement that properly reflects your needs and rights.