Alimony- during the time you separate or divorce, the court may order one spouse to pay the other spouse a designated amount of support/care monthly or yearly. This is commonly referred to as “spousal support.” A spousal support award is not mandatory.

Courts have discretion (within statutory parameters) to deny spousal support altogether or to limit it in an amount and duration that reflects the ability of both parties to provide for their own needs.

Spousal support can also be contractual and upon the completion of the contract for spousal support you need to file papers with the court so that you can inform the court that your obligation is complete.