Spousal Maintenance (alimony)

Spousal maintenance (alimony) can be a critical factor is ensuring financial stability after a divorce. We help clients understand their rights and obligations when it comes to spousal support. Whether you are seeking maintenance, contesting an award of maintenance, or need to modify an existing order, our experienced legal team provide strategic advocacy tailored to your situation.

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Spousal maintenance which is often referred to as alimony can be a critical component of a divorce or legal separation case, particularly when there is a financial imbalance between spouses. Whether you are seeking financial support after the end of a marriage or challenging a request for maintenance that you believe is unjustified, it’s important to understand your rights and obligations under Colorado law.

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At AWH Family Law we provide clear, strategic legal guidance to individuals on both sides of spousal maintenance cases. We work to protect your financial interests - whether that means pursuing the support you need to transition to independence or defending against unreasonable or unsupported maintenance claims.

In Colorado, there is no entitlement or automatic right to spousal maintenance. It is awarded only when certain conditions are met and when one party demonstrates a need for support and the other has the ability to pay. Courts rely on Colorado Revised Statue § 14-10-114, which outlines several key factors to determine if the parties meet the statutory factors for an award of spousal support.

For marriages lasting three years or longer, Colorado provides guideline formulas for calculating maintenance - but these are advisory, not mandatory. Judges have discretion to deviate based on the facts of the case. 

Our legal team has extensive experience representing clients seeking spousal maintenance as well as those who are being asked to pay. No matter your position, we approach your case with the same level of preparation and commitment to achieving a fair outcome.

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If You Are Requesting Maintenance:

We help you build a strong, evidence-based case demonstrating your financial need, your contributions to the marriage, and the justification for support. Whether you left the workforce to raise children or supported your spouse’s career, we ensure that your role

is fully considered and respected.

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If You Are Responding to a Maintenance Request:

We help you evaluate whether the request is reasonable and whether the other party truly meets the legal standards for receiving support. We ensure the court has a full and accurate understanding of your financial situation and advocate to prevent any award

that is excessive or unsupported by the facts.

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Modifying or Enforcing Maintenance Orders

Circumstances often change after a divorce, which may justify modifying a spousal maintenance order. This could involve a job loss, a significant change in income, retirement, or the recipient’s remarriage or cohabitation. We represent both payors and recipients in modification actions and help you present clear and compelling evidence to support your position.

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If a party is failing to comply with a court-ordered maintenance obligation, we also assist with enforcement, including wage garnishment, contempt actions, and other remedies available under Colorado law.

Spousal maintenance can have long-term financial consequences for both parties. Whether you're seeking support or defending against a claim, our goal is to ensure that the outcome is fair, reasonable, and grounded in the realities of your life. With experienced, balanced legal representation, you can move forward with greater clarity and confidence.