Legal Question in Family Law in Maryland

Do I have to pay spousal support if I get divorced after 2 years of marriage.

I wanted to know if I would have to pay spousal support to my wife if we got divorced after only 2 years of marriage. She has not worked durring this time.


Asked on 12/13/02, 4:18 pm

4 Answers from Attorneys

Patrick Stiehm Stiehm Law Office

Re: Do I have to pay spousal support if I get divorced after 2 years of marriage

Under section 20-107.1 of the Code of Virginia, the length of time a couple has been married is one of many factors that a court is required to consider in determining spousal support. There is no magic number of days, months or years, before the requirement is going to kick in.

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Answered on 12/13/02, 4:48 pm
Ranji Garrett Law Office of Ranji M. Garrett

Re: Do I have to pay spousal support if I get divorced after 2 years of marriage

There really is not any hard and fast answer to your question. When considering whether to grant spousal support (also known as alimony) to your wife, the court will consider a number of factors, including the ability of your wife to become self-supporting; the standard of living you and your wife enjoyed during your marriage; the length of the marriage; the age, physical and mental condition of both of you; your ability to meet your financial obligations while still paying alimony; the financial needs and resources of both of you; why you are getting a divorce; and what each person contributed to the marriage, both in terms of money and non-monetary contributions. You should make an appointment with a lawyer in your jurisdiction who can give you a better idea of what judges in your area tend to do based on the facts of your situation.

Ranji Garrett

301-296-4474

Disclaimer: Please note that the posting of this response is not intended to constitute legal advice. You should contact an attorney to obtain information applicable to your situation. This posting is not confidential or privileged and does not create an attorney/client relationship.

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Answered on 12/13/02, 4:49 pm
G. Joseph Holthaus III Law Offices of G. Joseph Holthaus

Re: Do I have to pay spousal support if I get divorced after 2 years of marriage

Spousal support is at the discretion of the judge and may not be necessarily awarded. If you feel that you require an attorney, feel free to contact me. Spousal awards range from a few months to several years.

G. Joseph Holthaus III

(410) 799-9002

(410) 619-5918

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Answered on 12/14/02, 12:09 am
David Bulitt Joseph, Greenwald & Laake

Re: Do I have to pay spousal support if I get divorced after 2 years of marriage

I would have to know more about your situation as the duration of marriage is one of several factors that a court considers in awarding alimony. You may certainly contact me at [email protected] or 301 220-2200.

Good luck.

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Answered on 12/16/02, 3:50 pm


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