Spousal Support (Alimony)

in Cleveland & Northeast Ohio

SPOUSAL SUPPORT

Whether you expect to receive spousal support or may be required to pay it, we help you understand what’s fair — and what’s realistic. In Ohio, spousal support (also called alimony) is determined based on a range of factors, not a set formula. That’s why it’s essential to have experienced legal counsel guiding you through the process from the start.


We represent clients across Cleveland, Independence, Westlake, Beachwood, and Akron in spousal support matters as part of divorce, dissolution, and post-decree modification.

Understanding Spousal Support in Ohio

WHAT IS SPOUSAL SUPPORT?

Spousal support is a payment from one spouse to the other after separation or divorce. It’s intended to provide financial stability — especially when there’s a significant difference in income or earning capacity.
We help you understand what types of support may apply in your case and whether it’s likely to be ordered.

HOW SPOUSAL SUPPORT IS CALCULATED

There is no fixed formula for spousal support in Ohio. Courts consider factors like:

  • Length of the marriage
  • Income of both parties
  • Earning ability and education
  • Age and health
  • Standard of living during the marriage
  • Contributions to the household or career
  • Child custody responsibilities

We help clients set reasonable expectations — and present strong financial evidence to support their position.

TEMPORARY VS. LONG-TERM SUPPORT

Some support is awarded temporarily during the divorce process. Other times, it may last for several years after the divorce is finalized.
We’ll explain what type of support may apply in your situation and help you plan accordingly.

NEGOTIATING SPOUSAL SUPPORT OUTSIDE OF COURT

Whenever possible, we help clients reach private agreements that avoid courtroom disputes. But if your case requires litigation, we’re prepared to advocate clearly and firmly on your behalf.

Post-Decree Support Modifications

If your financial situation has changed significantly since your divorce — whether due to job loss, retirement, or other life events — spousal support orders may be eligible for modification.

Enforcing Support Orders

If your former spouse is failing to pay court-ordered support, we can help you pursue enforcement through contempt proceedings or wage garnishment.

Who We Help

We represent both paying and recipient spouses, including:

  • Professionals and high-income earners
  • Stay-at-home spouses reentering the workforce
  • Individuals involved in high-asset or complex financial divorces

OUR APPROACH

  • We give you honest expectations from the beginning
  • We calculate support using real data, not assumptions
  • We focus on outcomes that are financially sustainable
  • We bring in financial professionals if needed for complex income or self-employment cases
  • We handle negotiations and court representation with clarity and discretion

FAQs

  • How is spousal support determined in Ohio?

    There’s no strict formula. Courts consider factors like income disparity, length of marriage, health, education, earning potential, and lifestyle.

  • Can spousal support be changed after divorce?

    It depends. If your divorce decree allows for modification, and there’s a significant change in circumstances, support can be increased, decreased, or terminated.

  • What’s the difference between temporary and permanent support?

    Temporary support is awarded during the divorce process. Long-term support is ordered after the divorce, based on the court’s findings or agreement between spouses.

  • Do both men and women receive alimony?

    Yes. Spousal support is gender-neutral. Either party may request support if there’s financial need and legal justification.

  • Is alimony taxable in Ohio?

    For federal taxes, alimony is no longer tax-deductible for the payer or taxable to the recipient for divorces finalized after 2018. Ohio follows this rule.

Have any more questions?

I WILL GIVE YOU HONEST ADVICE.

We don’t sugarcoat the truth — we give clear, honest advice.

I WILL PROVIDE YOU WITH CLEAR PRICING.

We explain costs upfront so there are no financial surprises.

I WILL LISTEN TO YOU FIRST.

We listen first, then guide you through your legal options.

TOGETHER, WE'LL FOCUS ON YOUR FUTURE.

We focus on practical outcomes that position you for a stronger future.