Spousal support, also known as alimony or maintenance, is a legal obligation in which one spouse provides financial support to the other spouse during or after a divorce or separation. The purpose of spousal support is to ensure that both spouses can maintain a reasonable standard of living post-divorce.
Many people wonder when spousal support will end. It is important to review this issue in simple terms.
Marriage duration
The duration of spousal support often depends on the length of the marriage. In short-term marriages, spousal support may be awarded for a limited period to help the recipient spouse get back on their feet. In long-term marriages, the court may award spousal support for a longer duration or even indefinitely.
Spousal support can be determined through a court order or a written agreement between the spouses. The terms of spousal support, including the duration and amount, are typically outlined in the divorce decree or separation agreement.
Termination and modification
Spousal support may end under certain circumstances known as termination events. According to the Judicial Branch of California, spousal support may end if the recipient spouse remarries, the court decides it should end, either party dies or because of a written agreement. Spousal support orders or agreements may be subject to modification or termination under certain circumstances. If there is a significant change in circumstances, such as a job loss, disability or change in income, either spouse may seek to modify or terminate the spousal support arrangement.
By having a clear understanding of when spousal support ends, both spouses can move forward with clarity and confidence post-divorce.
