How Can I Prove That I Need Spousal Support?

 Posted on March 17, 2025 in Spousal Maintenance

Spousal support, or alimony, is a court order that can alleviate the financial burden of a divorce. Alimony is not awarded in every divorce, however. On the contrary, if you want spousal support, you have to prove that it is financially necessary. An Illinois divorce attorney can help you petition for spousal support, making a case for your needs in front of a judge.

At Pesce Law Group, P.C., we are qualified to handle complex financial issues related to your divorce, based on decades of combined experience in family law. When you work with our firm, we will compile evidence to advocate for an award of alimony.

Health Records

If your health stands in the way of your financial independence, you may have grounds to petition for spousal support. For instance, if you have a chronic illness that severely limits your employment opportunities, a judge might consider a long-term alimony order. Medical documentation such as a doctor’s examination could prove that you have a debilitating health condition.

Your age might also be taken into consideration by a judge. Along with the frailty that comes with getting older, some employers might not want to hire someone who is close to retirement age. This can give the court a compelling reason to award spousal support. 

Financial Documentation

Alimony is often awarded when there is a significant gap in income between the two spouses. If you grew used to a certain standard of living from your combined income with your spouse, a divorce could come with a significant adjustment period. A judge may be inclined to award you with spousal support in cases where you might struggle to make ends meet with your income alone.

Pay stubs, bank statements, and income tax reports can all support your petition for alimony. At Pesce Law Group, P.C., we can help gather these documents for the court’s consideration.

Other Arguments for Alimony

Other factors can sway an alimony decision if brought to the court’s attention. For example, your spouse might have received significant assets or property in the divorce, which could give a judge reason to award you with alimony. Some of these assets include the marital home, vehicles, or investments.

In other cases, you could make a case for support that lasts while you are attending a university or vocational training. Alimony can help you become financially independent until you can get a job with higher pay or benefits. At Pesce Law Group, P.C., we will consider all possible arguments for a court order of spousal support, fighting to protect your long-term interests.

Contact a Naperville, Illinois Spousal Support Lawyer

A petition for spousal support often represents an urgent need. At Pesce Law Group, P.C., we recognize just how delicate your situation may be during and after a divorce. As such, we are prepared to advocate for an award of spousal support with a strategy of skilled negotiation.

Our DuPage County, IL divorce attorneys are ready to listen to your concerns. Call our offices at 630-352-2240 or reach out to us online for a free initial consultation.