Spousal Support in Michigan: The Four Different Types (and What They Mean)

Every state has its own laws governing spousal support after a marriage ends. The state of Michigan has four different types of spousal support.

Whether you’re the spouse paying support or the spouse receiving it, separated spouses in Michigan should be aware of the different types of support that one spouse may owe to the other when a marriage ends.

What Is Spousal Support?

It’s common in marriages for one spouse to bear a higher level of financial responsibility for a shared lifestyle and standard of living. If only one spouse works, or if one spouse makes significantly more money than the other, the higher earner may be obligated to continue supporting their spouse after a marriage ends.

Spousal support is different from a child support payment. If a separated couple has children, child support payments are calculated in addition to spousal support. Spousal support can be ordered even when no children are involved.

Using divorce attorneys to navigate the settlement process is always recommended when spousal support is involved. Legal representation can help ensure that both parties receive a fair settlement.

Spousal Support in Michigan

The state of Michigan has four different types of spousal support. Your divorce attorney can help you determine which type to pursue and a target amount to aim for based on your circumstances.

Temporary Support

A judge usually orders temporary support immediately after one spouse files for divorce. The spouse in need of support must request an order of temporary support, and this is usually done while filing or responding to the initial divorce papers.

Temporary support allows the lower-earning or unemployed spouse to continue to maintain their accustomed standard of living. It only lasts while the divorce proceedings are underway.

Periodic Support

Periodic support is awarded for a specified amount and period of time. This is the most common type of support awarded in Michigan. Periodic support is usually awarded when one spouse has remained at home or only worked part-time.

Once the spouse receiving support has returned to full-time work and is self-sufficient, periodic support comes to an end.

Permanent Support

Permanent support is harder to receive in Michigan. This type of support is usually only a possibility after a long-term marriage. Permanent support is awarded when the financially dependent spouse is unable to gain financial independence, usually due to age or disability.

Lump-Sum Support

Lump-sum support occurs when one spouse pays one large amount instead of making regular alimony payments.

Sometimes lump-sum payment is arranged through the transfer of shared property. In this case, the financially dependent spouse might keep the house instead of receiving regular alimony payments.

Speaking with a divorce attorney will help you understand which type of support is right for you. An attorney will guide you through the entire divorce settlement process, including your spousal support arrangement.

Gucciardo Family Law Can Help

If you’re going through a divorce, the family law lawyers at the Gucciardo Law Firm, PLLC, can help.

Call today and schedule a free new client consultation with a compassionate and experienced family law attorney.