If you are going through the divorce process, you might also be thinking about how alimony, also known as spousal support, will come into play. If you are making more money than your soon-to-be ex, you might be wondering how much the court will order you to pay. And if you are earning less or have been a stay-at-home spouse, you might be wondering how much you will receive in spousal support after divorce.
North Dakota law outlines how and when spousal support is awarded during the divorce. This law gives the court the power to assess the parties’ circumstances before determining the applicable spousal support. In addition, this law also gives the court the authority to modify or terminate spousal support.
During a North Dakota divorce proceeding, the court may issue any of these types of spousal support orders:
Temporary support
Under North Dakota law, a party in the divorce may be entitled to temporary spousal support once the divorce petition has been filed until the final judgment is made. This temporary alimony aims to ensure that neither party is impoverished as to rely on public resources while awaiting the conclusion of the divorce.
Rehabilitative support
This type of alimony is awarded to the disadvantaged spouse to help them acquire the right skills or work experience to help them become self-sufficient after the divorce. It is important to understand that rehabilitative support is temporary and will only last as long as the court considers it necessary for the disadvantaged party to acquire the skill or experience to secure employment.
Permanent support
This type of spousal support is meant to last a lifetime. Permanent support is awarded when the court establishes that the financially disadvantaged spouse cannot become self-supporting due to significant circumstances like extended absence from the job market, age or physical/mental challenges. However, permanent support can be terminated if the recipient remarries or enters into cohabitation.
Alimony is a court-directed monetary payment to a spouse following a divorce. Understanding the circumstances of your case can help you file a credible petition to get the support you need after the dissolution of the marriage.