Alimony is referred to as spousal support or spousal maintenance and is ordered by the court. This court order requires one spouse to pay an allowance to the other spouse. The alimony payment can be in a lump sum; however, it is more common for the courts to require monthly payments. The purpose of this payment serves to support a needier former spouse or to allow a former spouse to get the education necessary to support themselves. To determine if alimony is required in a divorce proceeding, the court will weigh a number of factors such as the standard of living of the spouses during the marriage, the financial resources of each party, and the age and physical condition of each party. If alimony is found to be proper by the court, the judge will also use these factors to determine the amount of the payment. If you are involved in a divorced proceeding, it is important to contact an attorney experienced in divorce law to protect your rights and oversee a fair and equitable divorce.

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