Alimony describes payments from one spouse for the support of the other while living in separate households, whether temporary or permanent.
How do I know if alimony has to be paid in my case?
The two primary considerations for awarding alimony are 1) the paying spouse’s ability to pay and 2) the receiving spouse’s needs. When parties cannot agree, judges consider other factors such as how long the parties were married and both of their contributions to the marriage.
Temporary alimony is usually provided when one sponge needs a limited amount of time to earn sufficient income to become self-supporting.
Permanent alimony is typically reserved for long term marriages with one spouse who earns significant income and has supported the family throughout the marriage.
Persons who have committed adultery that causes the divorce are not entitled to receive alimony. Unmarried persons also are not eligible for alimony.
