When spouses divorce, courts acknowledge that there will be a substantial change in each spouse’s lifestyle. One spouse usually earns more than the other and provides more to maintain the standard of living during the marriage. Consequently, a divorce can leave the less-earning spouse with insufficient resources to continue living the same way they did during the marriage. This is why courts order the payment of spousal support.
Modes of payment
The courts decide on the method depending on the available resources and capacity of the paying spouse and as they deem equitable. When awarding spousal support, Ohio courts set the conditions and mode of payment, which can be any of the following ways:
- Cash or checks
- Transfers from future income
- Real property
- Personal property
The payment can be in one lump sum or installments, depending on the paying spouse’s capacity and the type of support, whether permanent or temporary.
Is the payment method flexible?
It is possible for the courts to initially order a combination of payment methods, depending on the circumstances of each case. A subsequent modification of the payment terms can also happen if the original order includes a provision for modification or if significant changes in the parties’ lives call for changes in the support order. An example of these circumstances is a substantial increase or decrease in income.
Navigating through divorce concepts such as spousal support can be confusing at times. You would want to understand every bit of a divorce order, especially if it involves payment. Appropriate research and legal consultation can help make clear any uncertainty you may have with the divorce process.
