When going through a divorce, you know how important it is to take steps to ensure that you have a strong post-divorce future. The decisions you make during this process will affect you long-term, and it is important to secure terms that will allow you to move forward with confidence. It will be essential to learn about spousal support, as well as whether you will be making or receiving these payments.
Spousal support, also called alimony, is designed to provide the lesser-earning spouse with financial support after divorce. The intent is to offset the economic inequity brought about by an Oklahoma divorce, and one can give these payments on a permanent or temporary basis. It is helpful to know what factors can affect the amount of these payments and their duration.
Factors that affect the amount of spousal support
When determining the amount of spousal support someone will receive, there are various factors that the court will take into consideration. The court will consider the earning capacity of the spouse, whether one or both spouses have children to support and more. The exact amount will differ from person to person, but some of the things that can affect the amount of spousal support payments include the following:
- Length of the marriage
- Physical capabilities of each spouse
- Length of time the receiving spouse needs to become self-sufficient
- Standard of living enjoyed during the marriage
- Ability of paying spouse to support himself or herself while making support payments
- Emotional state and financial situation of both spouses
Alimony may be given on a rehabilitative basis, which means that a spouse can receive these payments for a period of time while going back to school or seeking additional income through employment. In some cases, a court may grant permanent alimony. You and the other spouse have the right to negotiate payments without the interference of the court.
Your future after divorce
The end of your marriage will impact you and your children for years to come. It is in your interests to know whether you could be eligible for spousal support, and if so, how much you may be able to receive. An assessment of your situation by an experienced professional can help you have reasonable expectations.