By GNGF on October 28th, 2022 in
What is the Difference Between Maintenance and Alimony and Spousal Support? Nothing. These are all different words for the exact same thing, payments made to a former spouse for either a predetermined or undetermined amount of time to be used to financially support the former spouse. Regarding the three different words, it just depends what state you live in as each state uses one of the three primarily. In Missouri, the state statutes use the word maintenance, but many clients as well as attorneys use spousal support or alimony interchangeably with maintenance. However, it is important to be familiar with the word maintenance, because Judges, court forms and paperwork, and educational materials about the Missouri court process will utilize the word maintenance.
Is There a Maintenance Chart or Calculation?
Unfortunately, at this point in time in Missouri, there is no chart or standardized formula to determine maintenance. Unlike child support, which is typically based on the Form 14 in Missouri, a maintenance form has not been created. One of the reasons for this is that the state law requires a Judge to analyze a number of different factors when considering maintenance, which could not possibly be narrowed down to a chart. Some Judges do have informal calculations they use, such as the Goeke chart.
If you have further questions about spousal support, or are going through a divorce and are in need of an attorney experienced with handling alimony and spousal support, consider contacting St. Louis firm Bardol Law today.
