What is Alimony?

Alimony is money paid by one spouse to the other so that he or she can maintain the standard of living as generally was enjoyed during the marriage. There are various types of alimony, such as:

- permanent alimony
- rehabilitative alimony
- limited duration alimony
- reimbursement alimony

There is also alimony that is awarded prior to the divorce while the action is pending.

An award of alimony is based upon need, the duration of the marriage, and the ability to pay. Marital circumstances will dictate the type of alimony to be awarded. If you have a long-term marriage and have been dependent on your spouse for support, you will most likely get a permanent alimony award. If you want to get back into the work force and brush up on work skills, you may get rehabilitative alimony.

If the parties agree, or a court decides, that alimony for a term of years is warranted, then limited duration alimony will be awarded.

If one spouse supported the other while the second spouse was attending school, then reimbursement alimony may be awarded.

The type and amount of alimony is greatly dependent on the facts of your individual case.