Opinion ID: 2581416
Heading Depth: 2
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: Substantial, Competent Evidence Supports The Award Of Spousal Maintenance For Three Years

Text: The decision of the magistrate suggests that the award of spousal maintenance was based primarily on Sherry's attending school full-time. The magistrate found that a delay in Sherry's schooling would prolong her need for alimony and that her paying reduced child support while she was becoming self sufficient would likely cost Stephen less than her paying higher support but taking longer to become self sufficient. Sherry needed approximately two years to complete her training. The magistrate made findings that support the conclusion that Sherry's circumstances required a third year of spousal maintenance, finding that Sherry's likely post-divorce expenses for basic needs and child support will be about $1,533. The magistrate found Sherry's current income to be $13,794, or approximately $1,150 per month, and upon graduation she could expect to start at about $1,300 per month and increase to $2,000 per month after two or more years experience. The magistrate ordered spousal maintenance to begin January 1, 1999, and continue through December 31, 2001. It appears that the magistrate extended the spousal payments beyond the finish of Sherry's training to allow her time to establish herself financially. Following the completion of her education, Sherry's expenses will still exceed her income for a period of time, which supports the decision for maintenance beyond the completion of schooling. The magistrate did not state the specific justification for the third year of spousal maintenance payments, but it is sufficiently clear from the record that Sherry will require assistance in meeting her needs after the completion of her education. It was within the discretion of the magistrate to make such an order.