# Definition of substantially dependant spouse **URL:** \ **Category:** Divorce and Separation Answers\ **Created:** [October 5, 2007, 7:05pm UTC](https://forum.rosen.com/t/definition-of-substantially-dependant-spouse/5089 "2007-10-05T19:05:31Z")\ **Posts on this page:** 2\ **Page:** 1
**Author:** ![Helena\_Nevicosi](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/h/db5fbb/32.png) [@Helena\_Nevicosi](https://forum.rosen.com/u/Helena_Nevicosi)\ **Post date:** [October 5, 2007, 7:05pm UTC](https://forum.rosen.com/t/definition-of-substantially-dependant-spouse/5089/1 "2007-10-05T19:05:31Z")
In order to determine if she is substantially dependent on you, the court will look at both of your incomes and expenses. If her income is not sufficient to meet her needs then the court may award her alimony. The amount she is awarded depends on each of your income and expenses. Helena M. Nevicosi Attorney with Rosen Law Firm 4101 Lake Boone Trail, Suite 500 Raleigh, North Carolina 27607 919.787.6668 main phone 919.787.6361 main fax Charlotte Office 301 McCullough Drive Suite 510 Charlotte, NC 28262 Main Phone: (704)307.4600 Main Fax: (704) 9343.0044 Durham & Chapel Hill Office 1829 East Franklin Street Building 600 Chapel Hill, NC 27514 (919) 321.0780 > **[North Carolina Divorce Law - Legal Answers and Info](https://www.rosen.com/)** > > The best resource for divorce in NC. Find accurate, legal, family law advice from attorneys practicing in Raleigh, Durham, Cary, and Chapel Hill. The response posted above is based upon the limited factual information made available and is not intended as a full and complete response to the question. The only reliable manner to obtain complete and adequate legal advice is to consult with an attorney, fully explain your situation, and allow the attorney sufficient opportunity to research the applicable law and facts required to render an accurate opinion. The basic information provided above is intended as a public service only, a full discussion with an attorney should be undertaken before taking any action. The information posted on this forum is available for public viewing and is not intended to create an attorney client relationship with any individual. These answers are provided for informational purposes only, a person should consult with their own individual legal counsel before taking any action that could affect their legal rights or obligations. ---
**Author:** ![Explaintomeplease](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/e/e79b87/32.png) [@Explaintomeplease](https://forum.rosen.com/u/Explaintomeplease)\ **Post date:** [October 5, 2007, 6:40pm UTC](https://forum.rosen.com/t/definition-of-substantially-dependant-spouse/5089/2 "2007-10-05T18:40:20Z")
My wife and are in the process of separating. There is a difference in income of about 20k. She makes low 50’s and I low 70’s. Will the courts see her as being substantially in need with only 1 child and virtually no debt? How much would I typically be looking at in spousal support with no marital faults involved? Has anyone any rough estimates?