Alimony
Financial Stability and Fairness After Divorce
Divorce affects more than your relationship.
It can also change your income, lifestyle, and financial security.
In many marriages, one spouse earns more, paused a career to raise children, or contributed in non-financial ways. Alimony (spousal support) exists to help both spouses move forward with fairness and stability.
At The Cooley Law Firm, we help clients throughout Las Vegas and Clark County understand, negotiate, and enforce alimony under Nevada law.
How Alimony Works in Nevada
Unlike child support, alimony has no fixed formula.
Under NRS 125.150, judges have broad discretion to decide:
Whether alimony is appropriate
How much should be paid
How long support should last
Courts May Consider:
Length of the marriage
Each spouse’s income and earning capacity
Standard of living during the marriage
Age and health of each spouse
Career sacrifices or homemaking contributions
Education or training needed to become self-supporting
Property division and overall financial circumstances
We analyze these factors carefully and build clear, evidence-based arguments tailored to your goals.
Types of Alimony
Nevada courts may award different types of spousal support, depending on the case.
Common Forms Include:
Temporary Alimony (Pendente Lite)
Support paid while the divorce is pendingRehabilitative or Short-Term Alimony
Support to help a spouse gain education or job skillsPermanent or Long-Term Alimony
Typically awarded in long marriages where self-support is unlikelyLump-Sum Alimony
A one-time payment or property transfer instead of monthly support
There is no one-size-fits-all solution.
The right structure depends on the marriage, finances, and future earning potential.
Modifying or Terminating Alimony
Alimony is not always permanent.
A court may modify or terminate support if there is a substantial change in circumstances, such as:
Job loss or significant income change
Retirement
Serious illness or disability
Remarriage or qualifying cohabitation
We assist clients with:
Filing or opposing modification motions
Negotiating changes outside of court
Terminating alimony when legal grounds exist
Every request must be supported by accurate financial documentation and presented properly under Nevada law.
Enforcing Alimony Orders
When court-ordered alimony is not paid, enforcement options may include:
Wage garnishment or income withholding
Contempt of court proceedings
Liens or collection actions
We represent both paying and receiving spouses, ensuring court orders are enforced fairly and lawfully.
Negotiating Fair Alimony Settlements
Whenever possible, we encourage negotiated or stipulated agreements.
Settlement can:
Reduce legal costs
Provide more flexible payment terms
Preserve privacy
Reduce emotional strain
Attorney Shelly Booth Cooley brings years of experience negotiating practical, sustainable alimony agreements that reflect real-world finances.
Why Choose The Cooley Law Firm
Comprehensive Financial Analysis
Careful review of income, assets, and long-term needsStrategic Advocacy
Strong negotiation and courtroom representationBalanced Approach
Protecting your rights while promoting fairness and dignityLocal Experience
Extensive familiarity with Clark County Family Court
Protecting Your Financial Future
Whether you are seeking alimony, contesting a request, or facing a modification, knowledgeable legal guidance matters.
Contact The Cooley Law Firm to schedule a consultation with Shelly Booth Cooley, a Las Vegas family law attorney, Certified Family Law Specialist, and Fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers and the International Academy of Family Lawyers, dedicated to helping clients protect their financial future through every stage of spousal support in Nevada.
