Married couples generally share the same standard of living. Frequently, one spouse earns far more than the other, possibly because the lower-earning spouse leaves the workforce or takes a less-demanding job to raise the couple’s children.
If they divorce, that uneven earning potential may mean that one spouse has a more difficult time bouncing back than the other. Spousal support, also known as alimony in other states, is one of the tools the courts can use to make the outcome of divorce a bit fairer.
Both those paying support and those relying on it to cover their basic expenses need to know how long support orders last as they plan for the future. What is the typical duration of spousal support?
Every support order is unique.
Spousal support is not automatic. One spouse must request it and prove that they require it. Additionally, their marriage has to meet the standards for an award of spousal support. Spousal support may only last for a few years or the length of a degree program in some cases.
Permanent or indefinite support is incredibly rare. It is usually only an option in cases where the marriage lasted 25 years or longer and there are other unusual factors present. Certain changes, such as the recipient remarrying or obtaining a job that pays well, could lead to the early termination of spousal support.
People trying to estimate their obligations or what they can expect to receive may need help evaluating their circumstances, and that’s okay. Learning more about spousal support statutes and how the courts handle support requests can be important for those in the early stages of divorce.
