An Alaska divorce can take time to resolve. While your case is pending, you may need answers about where your children will live, who will pay certain bills or who can stay in the family home. Interim, or temporary, orders can address these immediate concerns before the court issues final orders.
Depending on your family and financial circumstances, temporary relief may involve:
1. Child custody and parenting time
If you have children, you can ask for a temporary custody and parenting schedule. The court considers your child’s best interests and other circumstances affecting their welfare when deciding these arrangements.
2. Child support
You may request temporary child support while your divorce is pending. Alaska generally calculates child support under Civil Rule 90.3 using factors such as parental income and the custody arrangement.
3. Spousal support
If you need financial assistance while your case is pending, you may ask for temporary spousal support. A judge can consider your financial circumstances when deciding whether interim support is appropriate.
4. Use of the home and vehicles
You may ask the court to decide who can temporarily live in the family home or use certain vehicles. These orders can provide clarity when spouses disagree about shared property while the case is pending.
5. Payment of debts and expenses
The judge can also address responsibility for certain debts and household expenses. Depending on the circumstances, the court may temporarily assign responsibility for mortgage payments, bills or other financial obligations.
How do you request interim orders?
You generally seek this relief by filing a Motion for Interim Orders explaining what you want and the facts supporting your position. Alaska provides different forms depending on whether your divorce involves children. You must also provide the other party with a copy so they have an opportunity to respond.
The judge may rule on the written filings or schedule a hearing before deciding.
Making a clear interim request
What you ask the court to address and how clearly you explain your request can matter during this stage of your divorce. A legal professional can help you determine which interim orders fit your circumstances, present your request clearly and keep your broader divorce goals in mind.
