Alimony

Question 1

General Principles

Answer 1

• Paid to the economically dependent spouse

- 4 types of alimony

Question 2

4 Types of Alimony

Answer 2

(1) Permanent Periodic Support
(2) Lump Sum Support
(3) Rehabilitative Support (to gain education skills so not dependent relative to other)
(4) Reimbursement Support (law degree)

Can award MORE than 1

Question 3

Primary Considerations

Answer 3

Need of claimant AND ability of other spouse to pay

Balance

Question 4

Modification of Spousal Support

Answer 4

Based on: “a substantial and material change of circumstance”

Generally a voluntary reduction in income (going to jail) is NOT sufficient to reduce obligation

Question 5

Termination of Spousal Support

Answer 5

PERIODIC payments (not K) generally terminate:

• On re-marriage of the recipient
• Death of either spouse
• Some places, cohabitation w/another person

LUMP SUM survive death and are NOT modifiable