Question:
After twenty years of marriage, my wife and I separated for about a month in 2007. Shortly after my return to the house for a trial reunion, she was diagnosed with 4th stage cancer. After a year of treatments, she’s becoming healthier; but we both agree that our marriage has not gotten better.
We both want to separate again. She was just granted disability for herself and my son. What can I expect as financial obligations?
I would like to keep her on my insurance to limit her liabilities with the cancer. I worry that after a divorce the disability payments won’t be included as her income, and that I won’t have enough of my own income to live on.
Answer:
Your financial obligations will be determined by your state’s statutes and guidelines regarding support (child and/or spouse) and maintenance/alimony. Generally your contribution is capped at a percentage of your income.
Also, the question of keeping her on the health insurance depends on your policy.
Erik H. Carter is a Senior Attorney of the Cordell & Cordell, P.C. office in Indianapolis, Indiana as well as the Litigation Manager of both the Indianapolis and Pittsburgh offices. Mr. Carter has practiced since 1993 as an attorney. He is licensed in Illinois, Indiana, Pennsylvania as well as the Northern District of Indiana and the Southern District of Indiana.