Opinion
November 21, 1989
Appeal from the Supreme Court, New York County (Myriam J. Altman, J.).
The parties were married in a church ceremony on March 7, 1987, although no marriage license was ever obtained. They have one child, aged three. The defendant's gross income during the years 1985 through 1988 ranged between approximately $150,000 and $300,000 annually, while plaintiff's income varied between $15,000 and $28,000. We have examined the record, including defendant's claims of current debts and expenses, and find that, under the circumstances herein, the court's award of $300 per week maintenance, $100 per week child support, and $4,000 interim counsel fees is reasonable. Temporary awards of maintenance and child support are often based, as in the instant case, on conflicting affidavits and documentary evidence. A prompt trial, where a more accurate appraisal of the financial status of the parties and other relevant circumstances may be obtained, is the most effective method of resolving any claimed inequities concerning pendente lite awards (Sayer v Sayer, 130 A.D.2d 407; Tillinger v Tillinger, 141 A.D.2d 535; Cooper v Cooper, 121 A.D.2d 181).
Concur — Ross, J.P., Asch, Milonas, Rosenberger and Ellerin, JJ.