The phrase identifies a resource, typically online, designed to estimate potential spousal support obligations in the context of marital dissolution within a specific jurisdiction. Such tools often leverage publicly available information regarding statutory guidelines or prevailing legal precedent regarding factors considered in alimony determinations. These estimations should be treated as preliminary and not as definitive legal advice.
The significance of such a resource lies in its ability to provide individuals contemplating or undergoing divorce proceedings with a general understanding of possible financial outcomes. This allows for better-informed decision-making during settlement negotiations and potentially reduces legal costs by establishing a baseline expectation. While Maryland does not have a strict formula for determining alimony, these tools can incorporate common factors such as the length of the marriage, income disparity between spouses, and the contributions each party made during the marriage. The evolution of these resources reflects increasing accessibility to legal information and a desire for greater transparency in divorce proceedings.
