Is child support and spousal support based on the same criteria?

In Wisconsin, child support and spousal support are based on different criteria. Child support is calculated based on both parents’ income and other factors such as how many children they have and how often they spend time with them. This amount is then determined through a formula developed by the state of Wisconsin. Spousal support, however, is based on the needs of the spouse receiving the support (the dependant spouse) and the ability to pay of the spouse paying the support (the payer spouse). Factors taken into consideration when determining spousal support include the length of the marriage, the earnings and income of both spouses, the age and health of both spouses, the educational history of both spouses, and the standard of living during the marriage. Additional factors such as the dependant spouse’s need for additional education or training to become self-supporting may also be taken into consideration. In sum, child support and spousal support are based on different criteria in Wisconsin. Child support is calculated through a state-developed formula that takes into account both parents’ income and other factors, while spousal support is based on the dependant spouse’s needs and the payer spouse’s ability to pay, taking into consideration such factors as the length of the marriage and the educational history of both spouses.

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Is child support and spousal support based on the same criteria?

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