When a divorce involves significant assets, spousal support (also known as alimony) can become a complex issue. In New Hampshire, the court considers many factors when determining whether to award spousal support and the amount to be paid.
Spousal support considerations in high-asset divorces
In high-asset divorces, the court typically evaluates both parties’ financial needs and their ability to support themselves. This is often influenced by the standard of living during the marriage, the length of the marriage, and each spouse’s financial situation. For instance, if one spouse sacrificed career opportunities to manage the household or care for children, they may be entitled to more support.
Another consideration in high-asset cases is the marital lifestyle. The court aims to balance spousal support with the ability of both parties to maintain a similar standard of living, particularly if one spouse was financially dependent on the other.
How property division impacts spousal support
In New Hampshire, property division is typically done equitably, which means fairly but not necessarily equally. In high-asset divorces, the division of assets can significantly affect the need for spousal support.
If one spouse receives a large portion of the marital assets, they may not need as much support. However, if the assets are primarily tied up in non-liquid property (like real estate), support may be necessary for the spouse who needs financial stability while transitioning.
Modifying spousal support
In some cases, you can modify spousal support if there are significant changes in circumstances. In high-asset divorces, these changes could include fluctuations in income or changes in the financial needs of either spouse. If either spouse experiences a significant increase or decrease in income, they may revisit the support agreement.
Understanding how New Hampshire handles spousal support in high-asset divorces is important for anyone facing such a situation.
