Westport Alimony Lawyers
Practical Assistance for Alimony Cases Throughout Fairfield County
Unlike some states, Connecticut does not rely on strict alimony guidelines. Instead, the court exercises discretion in every case. Because of this, it is important to have legal counsel when seeking or contesting alimony, whether during a divorce or in a post-divorce matter.
At Ferro, Battey & Eucalitto, LLC, we practice family law exclusively. Our attorneys have years of courtroom experience. We meet with you to discuss your goals, explain your choices, and build a forward-looking plan.
Contact Ferro, Battey & Eucalitto, LLC by email or at (475) 264-4362 to consult our Westport alimony attorney. We also serve clients in Darien, Norwalk, Wilton, and New Canaan.
How Is Alimony Determined in Connecticut?
The court may order either party to pay alimony. The amount and duration depend on several factors unique to each marriage.
The court considers factors such as:
- The length of the marriage
- The causes for the marital breakdown
- The age, health, station, and occupation of the parties
- The parties’ income sources, vocational skills, employability, and estate
- The needs of both parties
- Property awards issued during the divorce
Courts in Fairfield County weigh the evidence and testimony from both spouses to decide how these factors apply. Judges also look at local property values and other financial records, especially in areas where the cost of living is higher than average.
When minor children are part of the household, custody issues can also affect the judge’s decision. Every family brings a different set of circumstances, and the court adjusts its approach to match each situation.
For instance, poor health may shape a judge’s decision in one case, while income differences might take center stage in another. No two alimony matters are identical, and the court matches its plan to the facts.
Types of Alimony & Their Role in Connecticut
Connecticut courts can award different types of alimony based on the specific needs of each family and the financial circumstances surrounding a divorce. The main categories include temporary alimony (pendente lite), designed to support a spouse while a divorce case is underway, and rehabilitative alimony, which helps a spouse gain financial independence within a set period. In some cases—such as after long marriages where one spouse does not have the ability to earn income—the court may order long-term or permanent alimony. Lump-sum alimony, which is a single payment rather than ongoing support, is less common but remains a possible outcome.
Modification of Alimony
Alimony awards are generally modifiable when either party's financial circumstances change in a significant way. This could involve a notable rise or drop in income, an unexpected job loss, or other major financial changes.
In Fairfield County, a party who seeks to change an alimony order usually files a motion in the Superior Court for the Judicial District of Fairfield at Bridgeport or Stamford, based on their residence and where the original divorce occurred. A judge may also change alimony if the recipient moves in with a new partner and their finances change as a result. Spouses may also agree to make alimony non-modifiable or to set specific conditions for changes, depending on the agreement they reach.
FAQs
Can alimony be enforced if the paying spouse moves out of Connecticut?
Yes, Connecticut alimony orders can be enforced in other states under the Uniform Interstate Family Support Act (UIFSA). Courts in another state may assist with collection if the payer relocates outside Westport or Connecticut.
How does remarriage affect alimony payments?
If the person receiving alimony remarries, Connecticut law typically allows alimony payments to end. The terms depend on the original court order and any agreements between the parties.
What is the difference between alimony and child support in Connecticut?
Alimony supports a former spouse, while child support covers the needs of children. Courts review separate factors for each, and one does not replace the other in a divorce or separation judgment.
Contact Ferro, Battey & Eucalitto, LLC for Legal Guidance
Whether seeking alimony, contesting a request, or negotiating terms, we offer insightful counsel and the professional skills you need to pursue favorable results. Working with us, you benefit from clear communication at every step. With a deep knowledge of CT family law, we provide guidance that fits your situation—whether you seek spousal support or respond to a notice regarding alimony. Each case in Westport is different, so we tailor our approach to your needs.
Call (475) 264-4362 or reach us online to consult our Westport alimony attorney.
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“I had a fairly complex case which involved adultery. Janet & Olivia were able to dissect the issue in a stepwise, logical manner, delivering ample rewards during the actual trial.”- Former Client
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“I know Ferro Family Law provided me the very best outcome I could hope for. Since then, I have retained them to represent me in some post judgment actions.”- Former Client
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“From the first time I met Janet & Olivia, through the end of my case, I knew I was in great hands. I cannot thank Ferro Family Law enough.”- Former Client
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“Aggressive, compassionate, cost-effective. I regularly refer Janet & Olivia to some of my most sensitive divorce cases. They are results-focused and responsive.”- Attorney Referral
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“This compassionate group of knowledgeable attorneys helped me and my children. I have and will continue to refer this firm to anyone in need of counsel for divorce.”- Former Client
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“Not only did Janet & Olivia quickly help me secure all protections for my daughter, they also ingeniously found a way to impel my spouse to get proper treatment.”- Former Client
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“Janet & Olivia genuinely care about all aspects of the client’s case and pay close attention to the client’s concerns, goals, and finances.”- Former Client
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“I have worked on several matters with Janet and Olivia. They are amazing attorneys. Smart, thorough and practical.”- Former Client
Have Questions?
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How long will the divorce process take?It depends. If the parties have an agreement on all issues and meet certain other conditions, they may get divorced as soon as 35 days from the date the divorce starts. However, that is atypical. Depending upon the contentiousness and complexity of the case, the case could last a year or more.
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How can a divorce lawyer help?Having a divorce lawyer will help to make the divorce process less confusing and overwhelming. A divorce lawyer will be able to advise you on the law and realistic outcomes for settling your case or at trial. In addition, a divorce lawyer will manage the case, including dealing with the other side, and advocating for your positions.
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What is the difference between a divorce and a legal separation?Both a legal separation and divorce will change the status of your relationship. However, a divorce will end your marriage, and a legal separation will not. Both terms are similar but the outcome in each is different. In both, the court will divide the parties’ property and enter alimony and child support orders. Unlike divorce if spouses are legally separated, they are not free to remarry. Spouses may elect a legal separation over divorce for religious reasons or to keep certain financial benefits. A legal separation can always be converted into a divorce. Converting a legal separation into a divorce effectively requires the parties to repeat the process they went through to get legally separated. For that reason, legal separation is rare; divorce is far more common.
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How are child support obligations determined?In Connecticut, when determining child support, the court is required to consider the Connecticut Child Support and Arrearage Guidelines. The Guidelines set forth a presumptive child support award for each case based upon the parties’ combined net weekly incomes and the number of children the parties have. In addition, the court may consider a number of other factors, including, but not limited to, the estate and needs of the child, vocational skills and employability of each parent, and each parent’s earning capacity. The court may also deviate from the presumptive child support for different reasons, which can include shared physical custody, coordination of total family support, or extraordinary disparity in parental income. To learn more about the calculation of child support in Connecticut, including high-income cases, click here.
