If your spouse does file an answer that contests your petition, the case will continue on a trial path and can entail several different court appearances. A divorce is often more than the legal ending of a marriage. Property, minor children, and finances all play a huge role in an individual’s divorce proceeding. From a financial perspective, the determination of spousal support and property division are the largest factors for consideration.

To determine whether spousal support is proper in your situation, as well as the appropriate amount, the court will take into consideration several different factors, including:

• The standard of living that the parties established throughout the marriage
• How long the marriage lasted
• The age of the parties
• The physical and emotional well being of each party
• The marital and nonmarital assets and liabilities of each party
• The earning capacity of each spouse, which is determined by education level,
  vocational skills, work experience, and time out of the workforce
• The contribution of each party to the marriage, such as homemaking, care
  for minor children, education, and assistance given to the other party
  for career building
• The retirement assets of each party
• The tax treatment consequences to both parties in the case of an alimony award
• All sources of income available to either party
• Any other factor necessary to promote fairness

The other financial factor of a divorce is the distribution of property. The court considers many of the same factors as used for spousal support. In addition, you may need to present evidence that shows how and when the property was accumulated. For example, a house purchased during the marriage with joint funds is considered marital property.