Guiding You Through Spousal Support with Strength and Compassion

Alimony—also known as spousal support—can be one of the most emotionally and financially complex parts of a divorce. Whether you’re seeking fair support or are being asked to pay, having an experienced and compassionate Rhode Island alimony lawyer on your side can make all the difference.

At the Law Office of Timothy M. Sweet, we’re here to help you navigate every aspect of spousal support. With years of experience handling divorce and family law cases across Rhode Island, Attorney Sweet provides clear guidance and strong advocacy to ensure your financial future is protected.

In Rhode Island, the courts and family law judges sometimes seem to operate on a pendulum. For some time, alimony may be awarded generously. Then, a few years down the road, a similar situation may yield completely different results.

Because alimony awards are based on the judges’ discretion, it’s important to work with an experienced alimony lawyer who knows how the courts have awarded support in the past and how that could influence your situation. An experienced lawyer can also present your situation in a clear, compelling manner.

How Is Spousal Support in Rhode Island Determined?

During a marriage, one spouse may be willing to change his or her lifestyle to raise a family or support the other spouse. That may mean quitting college to raise children, or leaving a lucrative position in order to spend more time at home. Although those sacrifices may be financially viable when there is another spouse who can earn a living, it can leave a financially dependent spouse in a difficult place post-divorce.

In those situations, alimony or spousal support can be awarded to one spouse to allow him or her to regain financial independence. The amount of alimony awarded is based on each spouse’s earning capacity, the length of the marriage and the lifestyle maintained during the marriage. Depending on a person’s need, alimony can be awarded for a specific period of time (such as the time it takes to complete a degree or land a job) or for a longer time period.

Why You Need an Alimony Lawyer

Spousal support cases can quickly become complicated, especially if there are disputes over need, ability to pay, or duration. A knowledgeable Rhode Island alimony lawyer like Timothy Sweet can help you:

• Determine if spousal support is appropriate in your situation

• Advocate for fair and reasonable alimony terms

• Negotiate support agreements outside of court when possible

• Represent you in court if needed

• Seek modification of existing alimony orders due to life changes

Whether you’re pursuing alimony or defending against an unreasonable support demand, Attorney Sweet will work tirelessly to protect your financial interests with strength, integrity, and empathy.

Modification and Enforcement of Alimony Orders

Life changes. Job loss, remarriage, illness, or retirement may all be valid reasons to seek a modification of existing spousal support payments. Likewise, if your former spouse is failing to comply with a court-ordered alimony agreement, Attorney Sweet can help you enforce the order and protect your rights.

We assist clients with:

• Alimony modification petitions

• Termination of alimony due to cohabitation or remarriage

• Enforcement actions for unpaid support

• Contempt of court proceedings when necessary

Speak with a Rhode Island Alimony Lawyer Today

If you’re dealing with a spousal support issue in Rhode Island, you don’t have to face it alone. At the Law Office of Timothy M. Sweet, we combine deep knowledge of Rhode Island alimony law with a client-first approach. . I can help. Learn more about your legal options by scheduling your free initial consultation. I am available through an online contact form or by calling 401-216-6506.