Henderson Alimony Attorney for Fair Spousal Support

Advocating for Just Alimony Payments in Henderson

Along with child custody and property division, spousal support (or "alimony") can be one of the most contentious issues in a divorce. If you are facing the end of your marriage and have concerns about paying or receiving spousal support, then seeking experienced legal guidance is essential. A dedicated alimony attorney in Henderson can help you navigate your spousal support issue and ensure the court receives the necessary information to make a fair determination.

At Ford & Friedman, we know that most alimony concerns center on securing a stable financial future during a turbulent time. Our attorneys stand by clients at every step, keeping spousal support and alimony concerns front and center throughout each phase of a divorce case.

Want to learn how our firm can assist with your alimony case? Call our team at (702) 904-9898 today to schedule a consultation.

Understanding the Duration of Alimony in Nevada

The length of spousal support depends on factors unique to each divorce, especially in Henderson and Clark County, where local courts see a wide range of financial and family situations. Judges in the Eighth Judicial District Court tailor alimony orders to the realities of each couple’s life, considering work history, education, and household needs established in the area. These orders can help one spouse adjust to post-divorce finances or pursue new job opportunities relevant to the local economy.

When deciding the length of alimony, courts have broad discretion and base their decisions on the type of assistance awarded. Temporary alimony always ends after the divorce finalizes and does not guarantee post-divorce support.

The court may order short-term, rehabilitative, or long-term alimony to stop on a certain date or upon a specific event. For instance, the judge might set a six-month cap on short-term support while a partner sells the marital home or when the recipient graduates and finds employment.

Alimony ends when the recipient remarries or if either spouse dies, unless the court orders otherwise.

Key Factors Influencing Alimony Awards

Alimony, also called spousal support, in Nevada is determined by several factors outlined in Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) Section 125.150, including the length of the marriage, each spouse’s financial situation, and their future earning capacity.

When considering whether to award alimony and in what amount, courts review the following:

• Financial resources and needs of each spouse: The court examines the financial resources, income, and assets of both spouses, including employment income, property, and other resources. The judge also considers the financial needs of each spouse, taking into account living expenses and the lifestyle maintained during the marriage.
• Duration of the marriage: The length can affect both the type and duration of alimony. Longer marriages often result in higher or longer-term awards.
• Education and career opportunities: The court reviews the education, skills, and employment options of each spouse. If one party delayed or left their career to benefit the marriage, the court may factor this into its decision.
• Age and health of each spouse: The physical and mental health of both parties can influence support decisions. Limited employability, poor health, or age can impact alimony amounts or duration.
• Contributions to the marriage: Judges weigh both financial and non-financial contributions, such as homemaking, childcare, or support for the other spouse’s career or education.
• Fault in the breakdown of the marriage: In Nevada, courts may consider fault, such as adultery or abuse, when determining alimony.
• Prenuptial agreements: Where a prenuptial agreement addresses alimony, courts typically follow its terms.
• Other relevant factors: Judges may consider any other details they find significant to the case.

The Eighth Judicial District Court applies these factors to deliver fair and tailored spousal support decisions. Local court procedures can influence when and how you present evidence. Addressing these elements with complete documentation can make a meaningful difference, especially in matters involving assets or family-owned businesses specific to Southern Nevada.

If you are engaged in a divorce case in Nevada and have questions about alimony, consulting an attorney can clarify how these factors may apply to your situation.

How to Modify Alimony Awards in Nevada

Life often changes quickly, especially in a growing city like Henderson. Nevada courts recognize that job loss, disability, or major financial changes may require adjusting your alimony order. When seeking a modification, producing current financial records and showing a genuine shift in circumstances can support your position. Consulting an alimony lawyer can help ensure your request is properly documented and presented.

If the parties do not agree, the judge may amend an alimony order when conditions change. The court reviews changes like shifts in wages, employment, or injury. A wage change must show a 20% or more difference for the judge to consider altering the existing alimony order.

Exploring Types of Alimony Available in Nevada

Clark County Family Court may award different types of alimony depending on your circumstances. Temporary support helps a spouse cover expenses before the divorce finalizes. Rehabilitative support provides time for a spouse to complete job training or education needed for financial independence in Henderson’s workforce. Long-term or permanent support, while less common, may apply if one party shows high financial need or if the spouses had a long marriage. The court bases these decisions on fairness and the unique needs of local families.

Nevada courts can order various types of spousal support for different purposes during and after a divorce. For example, temporary spousal support may be awarded as soon as a divorce is filed to support a dependent spouse. Rehabilitative spousal support helps a dependent spouse become financially independent after divorce. Permanent spousal support is now rare and, when awarded, remains subject to regular review.

NRS 125.150 Section 8 A-K dictates that the following factors should be considered by the court when making a spousal support determination:

• Earning capacity of each spouse
• Health of each spouse
• Length of marriage
• Recent or extended unemployment for one of the spouses

These categories help courts reach fair support decisions. In Henderson, judges examine how a spouse’s career prospects fit within the local job market and cost of living. Understanding the distinctions among support types helps you know what to expect in court and plan for your financial future.

State statutes and guidelines for spousal support orders in Nevada lack precise definitions. Having a strong and assertive spousal support lawyer can shape your future quality of life.

Understanding Tax Implications for Alimony in Nevada

Paying or receiving alimony affects your taxes, so it helps to understand the rules before finalizing your divorce. Under the federal Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, for divorces finalized after 2018, the IRS no longer allows the person paying alimony to deduct those payments, and the person receiving alimony does not need to report them as income. Nevada courts follow the federal rule. For many residents in Henderson and Clark County, these tax laws often play a role in negotiations and how parties evaluate settlements. Staying informed prevents surprises during tax time and supports sound financial planning after divorce.

The Role of Mediation & Courts in Henderson Alimony Cases

Mediation provides families a private, less adversarial way to resolve alimony and related divorce issues. In Clark County, the Family Mediation Center helps both parties discuss options with a neutral third party before going to court. By using mediation, families can often reach agreements faster and with less stress than traditional litigation. If no agreement is reached, the Eighth Judicial District Court reviews evidence and issues an alimony order. An experienced spousal support attorney can guide clients through mediation and litigation to fit their family’s needs, ensuring their rights and interests are protected throughout the process.

We're ready to discuss your alimony concerns. Use our online form to request a consultation with an experienced spousal support lawyer in Henderson today.