Alimony

Alimony

Alimony (pronounced: /ˈælɪˌmoʊni/), also known as spousal support or spousal maintenance, is a legal obligation on a person to provide financial support to their spouse before or after marital separation or divorce. The concept of alimony is derived from the principle that both spouses have an absolute obligation to support each other during their marriage (or civil union).

Etymology

The term "alimony" comes from the Latin word alimonia, which means nourishment or sustenance. The Latin word alimonia was then transformed into the Middle English word alimony during the late 16th century.

Types of Alimony

There are several types of alimony, including:

• Temporary Alimony: This is granted when the parties are separated but the divorce is not yet final.
• Rehabilitative Alimony: This is granted for a short period and is meant to help one of the parties get back on their feet.
• Permanent Alimony: This is granted until the death of the payer, the remarriage of the recipient, or a significant event occurs that would make it unfair to continue payments.

Related Terms

• Divorce: The legal dissolution of a marriage by a court or other competent body.
• Separation: A situation in which a married couple decides to live apart as if they were divorced, but without getting a divorce.
• Spousal Support: Another term for alimony.
• Marital Property: Property acquired by either spouse during the marriage.

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