Washington Child & Spousal Support Lawyer
When a married couple gets a divorce, there are many people who may be left in need of financial support. Namely, these individuals include a lower-earning spouse and minor children. The law in Washington, and throughout Pennsylvania, provides provisions that can help support these individuals after a marriage ends so they are not left in hardship. Below, our Washington child & spousal support lawyer explains the types of support available.
What is Spousal Support in Washington?
When a couple is married, both spouses have an inter-spousal support obligation. This obligation is created at the time of marriage and exists as long as the marriage continues. Once a couple separates, but have not officially filed for divorce, one spouse may be required to pay the other spousal support. Unlike in other states, spousal support in Pennsylvania is not the same thing as alimony as the two terms cannot be used interchangeably.
Spousal support is only paid while a married couple is separated. As soon as one spouse files for divorce, spousal support will end. At this time, the higher-earning spouse may be required to pay alimony. There are many different types of alimony in Washington. Alimony pendente lite, which translates into ‘pending litigation,’ is paid while divorce proceedings are ongoing. When the divorce decree is finalized, an order for another type of alimony may be issued or the order may be terminated.
What is Child Support in Washington?
Child support is a completely separate issue from spousal support and alimony. As the name implies, child support is paid by one parent to help offset the costs of raising the child. In most situations, child support is paid to the custodial parent by the non-custodial parent. In the majority of cases, child support is paid until the child turns 18 years old or graduates from high school, whichever is later. Sometimes, parents are required to pay child support indefinitely when a child cannot support themselves due to a physical or mental disability.
In Washington, as throughout the rest of Pennsylvania, the courts use an income shares model to determine the amount of child support a parent must pay. Under these guidelines, the amount of income earned by both parents is taken into account. The payments are intended to help cover many costs regarding the child including medical expenses, education, food, and transportation.
It is possible to modify child support orders if the needs of the child change, or the financial situation of either parent changes. However, no one should ever modify child support on their own. In order to change these orders, you must petition the court and obtain permission.
Our Child and Spousal Support Lawyer in Washington Can Help Resolve Your Issues
At Bunde & Roberts, P.C., our Washington child and spousal support lawyer knows how contentious these issues can become during divorce. We also know the challenges involved in resolving them, and how to overcome them. Call us now at 412-391-4330 or chat with us online to schedule a consultation and to get the legal help you need.
