Trusted Family Law Advocacy In Mississippi For More Than 30 Years

Divorce May Be Difficult, But We Can Help You

There are many important considerations in divorce, including custody of the children, who stays in the house and who receives spousal support. Divorce is a difficult and stressful process, but we will protect your rights and help you get through it. At our firm – Suzanne Baker-Steele, Attorney At Law, P.L.L.C. – we are here to help you through the process. We will assist you with challenging decisions and guide you onto the path to achieving the best outcome in your situation. Contact us online or call 228-206-2055 to schedule your appointment with a lawyer who serves Biloxi and the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

Understanding Division Of Marital Property

When you get divorced, all property that is accumulated during the marriage must be divided. Based on the date of the marriage, the court will define the marital estate and its contents. All assets and debts are equitably divided between the two parties. If a family business is part of the marital estate, that also is divided.

Determining Eligibility For Spousal Support And Alimony

Based upon the length of the marriage and the quality of life both people enjoyed, one spouse may be eligible for spousal support. We work with clients to determine which of the three types of alimony is most appropriate for their situation:

  • Periodic: Periodic spousal support is paid until the husband or wife dies, or until the receiving spouse remarries or begins living with another person who assists with support. The periodic sum is modifiable as the circumstances of either party change. The payments are deductible for the paying spouse and count as income for the receiving spouse on federal and state income tax returns.
  • Lump sum: A lump sum is used by the courts to equalize the value of the estate between the spouses. The amount is nonmodifiable. The amount can be made in payments, but once it is paid in full, that is the end of it.
  • Rehabilitative: Rehabilitative spousal support is used to make a spouse whole. If one spouse relocated to be with the other spouse, cut their salary and then the marriage ended abruptly — they may be eligible for rehabilitative support. This money would be used to help them return to their former life. This is a monthly payment for a set amount and a set period of time.

Get The Legal Help You Need With Your Divorce

We have been successfully representing clients in all divorce matters and other family concerns including child custody and support for more than three decades. We look forward to helping you. We are here to answer your questions and provide the legal support you need. Schedule your appointment by contacting us online or by calling 228-206-2055.