Spousal Support/Alimony Lawyers

What is spousal support?

Spousal support (also known as alimony) is a payment made by one spouse to a former spouse. Spousal support may be granted to the husband or wife and can be temporary (for the duration of a divorce action) or permanent (begin upon divorce). Temporary support is awarded at the discretion of the court, whereas permanent spousal support is awarded based on a number of statutory factors including the income of the parties, the earning abilities of the parties, and the duration of the marriage, among other factors. Spousal support can be for a specific length of time, indefinite or may terminate upon the occurrence of a particular event. Spousal support awards can be modified if the court has retained jurisdiction and there is a substantial change in circumstances.