Child Support and Alimony Lawyers
Minnesota divorce law and Wisconsin divorce law provides for child and spousal support (also known as alimony or maintenance). The development of guidelines makes calculating these amounts easier. However, it is still important to consult an attorney to ensure that you are paying or receiving the correct amounts.
Put Our Experience to Work for You
At our Twin Cities law firm, Chmielewski Law Office, we have significant experience working with child support guidelines and developing proposals for paying or receiving alimony. Contact our Woodbury, Minnesota office toll-free at 866-446-6529.
Issues in Child Support
Minnesota and Wisconsin guidelines govern child support calculations. This may sound straightforward, but it is important to include all factors in the calculation to ensure a fair outcome. We make sure that clients consider the following:
- Number of children
- Day care costs
- Health insurance costs
- Amount of time granted for time sharing
- Cost of private school tuition, summer camps and music and sports lessons
These and other issues can affect the final determination of support.
Issues in Alimony
There are several types of alimony in Minnesota and Wisconsin, including permanent, temporary, rehabilitative and lump sum. These are awarded based on the specific circumstances of the couple. Issues that are considered by the judge include:
- Duration of the marriage
- Contributions of the person to the marriage
- Financial resources of the party seeking maintenance, including property apportioned to the party
- Time necessary to allow a party to reintegrate into the work place in light of completing education or training to become fully or partially self supporting
- Standard of living during the marriage
- Need of one party for support
- Ability of other party to pay support
Additionally, an alimony award may be modified if circumstances change. For example, one of the parties may begin cohabiting with someone who is providing support. Minnesota law and Wisconsin law may prohibit people from receiving alimony if they are cohabiting with someone who supports them. If a situation like this arose, the other party would be able to seek a modification of the alimony paid. Similarly, if there have been enforcement issues, a modification may be possible.
Getting the Information
It is critical to find all assets when calculating support. As your divorce lawyer, our law firm uncovers bank accounts, financial records and credit card information. We use forensic accountants to find hidden property. In alimony disputes, we may consult with vocational evaluators to learn whether a person could work and how much he or she could earn.
Learn How a Divorce Attorney from Our Firm Can Help
Find out how our lawyers can help you with child support or alimony. Contact our Woodbury, Minnesota law firm toll-free at 866-446-6529.
