How does a judge determine if I qualify to receive spousal maintenance or alimony?

Spousal support, sometimes referred to as spousal maintenance or alimony, is not automatic. Courts have broad discretion to award maintenance or not award it. It is important to look at the laws in each state as they differ in how spousal support is determined and what factors are used. Some of the factors when considering spousal support may include such things as:

• The need of one spouse versus the other spouse’s ability to pay.
• The earning capacity of each spouse.
• The length of the marriage.
• The age and health of the spouse seeking support.
• The impact on the children.
• The conduct of the parties during the marriage.

Kirk C. Stange of Stange Law Firm, PC is a family law attorney in St. Louis, Missouri.