Alimony is awarded based on one spouse’s demonstrated need and the other spouse’s ability to pay — it’s gender-neutral and isn’t meant to give the receiving spouse a financial advantage. Depending on the circumstances, it may be awarded as permanent or rehabilitative (temporary) support.
What this can involve
- Standard of living established during the marriage
- Length of the marriage and age/health of the parties
- Financial resources and assets of each party
- Each party’s contribution, including homemaking and career support