Spousal support is obtained by filing a complaint in your county Domestic Relations Office (DRO). Any spouse who is separated and earns less than their spouse is entitled to file. However, your husband can challenge your right to spousal support claiming that you were at fault, also. That may seem far fetched but it is a common tactic and he has nothing to lose b trying it.
A better approach is to file a divorce complaint and then file a complaint for APL in DRO. There is no question of entitlement to APL and you would receive the exact same amount. The amount is 30% of the difference between your 2 net incomes. You can, and should, also file for child support at the same time in the same complaint. That figure is based upon guidelines and a comparison of your incomes with an adjustment based upon the APL to be paid also.
For a determination of the approximate figures, you can consult the child support estimator found on the PA website. This is the link to the PA child support site and the estimator link is on that page. https://www.humanservices.state.pa.us/csws/home_controller.aspx
I suggets you speak to an attorney and I am available by phone or in person on a free initial basis.
Answered on Jan 09th, 2013 at 11:39 AM