Types of spousal support
If you are considering divorce but are in need of financial support, you may be entitled to spousal support, alimony pendente lite, and/or alimony.
- Spousal support: This type of financial support is available before a divorce is filed. You must be the innocent and injured spouse to file for spousal support, which can be received until the divorce is finalized.
- Alimony pendente lite (APL): This type of financial support is available between the time divorce is filed and the time divorce is finalized. APL is usually granted when one spouse has relied on the other spouse’s income during the marriage.
- Alimony: This type of financial support is available after the divorce is finalized.
Child support
In addition to the above forms of financial support, if you share a child, you may be eligible for child support. Child support is determined based on both parents’ income and the custody schedule.
Filing for financial support
To start a support action, go to your go to your local Domestic Relations Office (DRO). The DRO may ask you for details about your income and assets. Have the following information on hand:
- Checking and savings account information
- Pay stubs or your last tax return
- Expenses you pay for your child(ren), such as healthcare, daycare, and special needs
Staff at the DRO will provide you with forms to start a support action and will schedule you for a support conference. Once the conference is scheduled, the DRO will serve the other party with the support action. In order for the DRO to serve the other person, it will need the following information about them:
- Name
- Address
- Place of employment
Filing fees
There is a fee to start a support action. If you cannot pay the fee, please contact your local domestic relations office for paperwork to ask to get the fee waived. Provide them with the completed form and they will decide whether you need to pay the fee.
For more information and guidance on financial support, please contact one of our attorneys.