Spousal Support

Question 1

spousal support

Answer 1

aka maintenance or alimony

can be awarded if spouse’s separate property is insufficient for maintenance

Question 2

spousal support discretion

Answer 2

courts have significant discretion and based on totality of circumstances

Question 3

purpose

Answer 3

ensures sufficient income for a spouse who became economically dependent, in whole or in part, due to the marriage relationship

Question 4

terms

Answer 4

can be awarded short-term or indefinitely as lump sum or periodic payments

Question 5

types of spousal support

Answer 5

permanent periodic spousal support
rehabilitative spousal support
lump sum spousal support
reimbursement spousal support

Question 6

factors for spousal support

Answer 6

1. financial resources of each party
2. standard of living established during marriage
3. time necessary for party seeking support to obtain employment (including education and training)
4. contribution of each party to marriage (including childcare, career support, contributions to home, etc)
5. ability of the spouse paying support to meet their own needs

Question 7

fault/infidelity

Answer 7

fault/infidelity NOT relevant factor in most states