Westchester, NY family law attorney Andrea B. Friedman talks about the trends she sees in the awarding of spousal maintenance. She explains that spousal maintenance in New York underwent significant changes with the 2016 reforms, which introduced a standardized calculation for post-judgment maintenance awards. She notes that a major trend in spousal maintenance cases is the reliance on this statutory calculation as a starting point for determining obligations.

However, she emphasizes that cases involving high-income earners can be more complex, particularly when incomes exceed the statutory caps. In such situations, the courts must consider the parties’ lifestyle and may award amounts that go beyond the formulaic calculation. She underscores that navigating these cases requires careful analysis to ensure fair and equitable outcomes.