Photo of the legal professionals at Harry Lewis Co., LPA
Photo of the legal professionals at Harry Lewis Co., LPA

Trusted In The Columbus Area
For More Than 40 Years

Photo of the legal professionals at Harry Lewis Co., LPA

Trusted In The Columbus Area For More Than 40 Years

Can Ohio courts award temporary spousal support during a divorce?

On Behalf of | Nov 15, 2023 | Divorce, Spousal Support |

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the divorce rate in Ohio in 2021 was 2.6 out of 1,000 people. Divorce is a complex and emotionally challenging process, especially when it involves financial considerations.

In the state of Ohio, the court has the authority to grant temporary spousal support during divorce proceedings, providing financial assistance to one spouse until the finalization of the divorce.

How it works

Temporary spousal support is something the court often awards when one spouse requires financial assistance to maintain their standard of living while the divorce case is ongoing. The purpose of temporary spousal support is to ensure both parties have the financial means to cover their basic expenses during the divorce process, rather than leaving one party in a vulnerable financial position.

Eligibility

A situation must meet certain criteria to be eligible for temporary spousal support in Ohio. The court considers factors such as the length of the marriage, the standard of living established during the marriage and the financial resources and earning capacity of both spouses. Additionally, the court takes into account each spouse’s age, physical and emotional health and any contributions made to the marriage, including homemaking and childcare responsibilities.

The court evaluates the financial needs of the spouse seeking support and the other spouse’s ability to pay. The goal is to ensure that neither party faces a financial disadvantage during the divorce proceedings.

An important note

It is important to note that temporary spousal support is not automatic. The court may not grant it in all cases. The court exercises its discretion in determining the amount and duration of support. Temporary spousal support provides temporary assistance until the finalization of the divorce only. At that point, the court may issue a more permanent spousal support order in the divorce decree.

Temporary spousal support can offer a degree of financial stability during the divorce process, enabling both parties to cover their necessary expenses and legal fees. It is important for individuals going through a divorce in Ohio to understand their rights and options regarding spousal support.