Spousal Support
Request Consultation
Spousal Support Lawyer in Queens, NY
Spousal support—sometimes called alimony—is one of the most important financial issues to resolve during a divorce. For individuals navigating separation or divorce in Queens, especially in Jackson Heights and nearby NYC neighborhoods, having an experienced spousal support lawyer from Law Office of Schachter, PC is essential. Whether you're seeking to receive maintenance or being asked to pay it, your financial future depends on the terms negotiated or decided in court.
New York law allows for both temporary and long-term maintenance, and courts consider a range of factors like income, lifestyle, and the duration of the marriage. Understanding what you're entitled to—or obligated to pay—can be complicated without legal representation. Our legal team helps ensure the outcome reflects your needs and protects your rights.
If you’re going through divorce or separation in Queens and need support with spousal maintenance, call us at 718-505-4556 or reach out to our legal team online to schedule a private consultation with a trusted NYC family law attorney familiar with local courts and state law.
What Is Spousal Support?
Spousal support (or alimony) is a court-ordered payment from one spouse to another during or after divorce. It’s designed to help a lower-earning spouse maintain financial stability and adjust to post-divorce life. In New York, it's formally referred to as “spousal maintenance.”
Legal Benefits of Spousal Support Representation:
- Helps ensure accurate income reporting from both spouses
- Protects your financial security during negotiations
- Applies New York’s formulas and judicial discretion appropriately
- Prevents unfair or unrealistic demands
- Positions you for future modification or enforcement, if necessary
To learn how spousal support may relate to your broader divorce case, visit our page on Divorce Law in New York.
Why Clients Across Queens Choose Our Legal Team
With a strong presence in Jackson Heights, Law Office of Schachter, PC understands the Queens court system and the real-world financial pressures our clients face. The attorney you choose can make a meaningful difference in the fairness of your support order—whether you're the paying or receiving spouse.
What Sets Our Approach Apart:
- Local experience in Queens Family and Supreme Court matters
- Personalized guidance—no generic advice or one-size-fits-all plans
- Trusted reputation in NYC divorce and family law
- Responsive communication and clear explanations at every step
- Coordination with related matters like child support and high-asset divorce
We regularly help clients navigate all types of family law cases across Queens—from Forest Hills and Flushing to Jackson Heights and Astoria.
How We Help With Spousal Support in Queens
Step 1: Financial Review and Strategy Planning
We start with a complete review of both parties’ incomes, expenses, and financial obligations. Our attorneys analyze how New York’s spousal maintenance guidelines apply to your case.
Step 2: Negotiation or Court Advocacy
Whether you’re pursuing or opposing support, we work toward fair terms—through negotiation or aggressive litigation, depending on your case’s needs.
Step 3: Modification or Enforcement
We assist with post-divorce changes or enforcement if one party stops paying or if life circumstances change substantially (job loss, remarriage, etc.).
Common Questions About Spousal Support in NYC
How does the court decide who pays spousal support?
Judges review income differences, lifestyle, the marriage’s duration, each spouse’s ability to earn income, and contributions to the household (including childcare or homemaking).
Can I modify a spousal support order later?
Yes. If your income changes significantly or your ex-spouse remarries, you may qualify for a modification of your order.
Do spousal support payments affect taxes?
As of 2019, under federal tax law, spousal support is no longer deductible for the payer or taxable to the recipient. However, financial planning still matters—our attorneys can help you prepare accordingly.
Is spousal support different from child support?
Yes. Spousal support is meant for the ex-spouse, while child support is for the children’s needs. Both can be ordered simultaneously, and our attorneys are experienced in managing both issues in the same case.
I agreed to a support amount in mediation. Should I still speak with a lawyer?
Absolutely. Even amicable agreements need to be reviewed to ensure they are enforceable and fair long-term. We help finalize and file proper documentation to avoid future disputes.
Serving Queens and Jackson Heights with Trusted Family Law Counsel
Law Office of Schachter, PC proudly serves clients throughout Queens County and NYC, with a focus on Jackson Heights, Forest Hills, Flushing, Corona, and surrounding boroughs. If you’re in the middle of a divorce or revisiting a prior court order, having an attorney who knows the Queens legal system matters.
Whether you're negotiating support for the first time or need help modifying an order, we provide clear, results-focused advocacy to protect your financial future.
Speak With a Spousal Support Attorney in Queens Today
Spousal maintenance is a critical part of divorce that deserves strong, local representation. We’re here to guide you through each step—clearly, respectfully, and strategically.
Request a consultation online or give us a call at 718-505-4556 today to speak with a spousal support lawyer serving Jackson Heights, Queens, and all five boroughs.