Alimony or spousal support exists to help ensure fair divorce outcomes. People frequently make personal financial sacrifices during marriage that may leave them struggling to support themselves after a divorce.
A parent who stayed home to raise children or a spouse who deprioritized their career to provide more household services to a high-earning spouse might be eligible for spousal support after a divorce. Those trying to plan for their financial future after the end of a marriage may wonder how long they can rely on spousal support.
Understanding the rules enshrined in state statutes may make it easier to know what to expect.
The length of the marriage is a key factor
In some cases, spouses may have a prenuptial agreement specifying terms for spousal support. Other times, they may reach an agreement through negotiations with one another. If they cannot settle the matter privately, then they must ask a judge to review the situation and determine what is appropriate.
When spouses litigate spousal support disagreements, the duration of the marriage is a key consideration. Longer marriages generally lead to longer financial support obligations.
If the marriage lasted less than 10 years, then spousal support typically lasts half the duration of the marriage. However, long-term marriages that lasted more than a decade can lead to longer spousal support orders.
Judges must also consider unique factors, including the earning potential of both spouses. The age of the spouses, their health and even arrangements for their children can play a role in guiding decisions related to spousal support during divorce.
Learning more about state statutes can help make the divorce process more predictable. Spousal support is often a temporary solution for the financial discrepancy between the spouses, but it can help a lower-earning spouse rebuild after divorce.