Divorce is not just the end of a marriage—it’s a significant legal and financial transition. One of the most frequently asked questions we receive at Hecht & Associates is about alimony (also known as spousal support): what it is, how it’s determined, and how long it lasts. If you’re going through a divorce in Maryland or Washington, D.C., understanding how alimony works is essential for protecting your rights and planning for your financial future.
What Is Alimony?
Alimony is a court-ordered payment from one spouse to another, designed to help the receiving spouse maintain financial stability after a separation or divorce. It is not automatic—either party must request it during the divorce process, and the court will decide whether it is appropriate based on a range of factors.
Types of Alimony in Maryland
Maryland law recognizes several types of alimony:
- Temporary Alimony: Awarded while the divorce is pending. It ensures financial support during the legal process but does not guarantee future payments.
- Rehabilitative Alimony: The most common form. It is awarded for a set period to help a spouse gain education, job training, or work experience necessary to become self-supporting.
- Indefinite Alimony: Granted in rare cases where one spouse is unlikely to become self-supporting due to age, illness, or disability, or when there is an “unconscionable disparity” in living standards post-divorce.
How Is Alimony Determined?
Unlike child support, there is no fixed formula for calculating alimony in Maryland. Instead, judges consider multiple factors under Maryland Code, Family Law §11–106, including:
- The length of the marriage
- The financial needs and resources of each party
- Each party’s age, physical and mental condition
- The standard of living during the marriage
- Contributions (both economic and non-economic) to the family
- The ability of the paying spouse to meet their own needs while paying alimony
- Any agreement made between the parties
- Fault or misconduct leading to the breakup of the marriage (in some cases)
The court’s goal is to reach a fair and equitable outcome—not to punish one spouse or reward the other.
Can Alimony Be Modified or Terminated?
Yes. Alimony orders can often be modified or terminated if there is a material change in circumstances. This may include:
- A significant increase or decrease in income
- Job loss or promotion
- Remarriage or cohabitation by the receiving spouse
- Retirement
Some alimony agreements, however, are non-modifiable if both parties agree to that in advance.
Why You Need a Skilled Family Law Attorney
Whether you are seeking alimony or being asked to pay it, having experienced legal representation is critical. At Hecht & Associates, we help clients understand their rights, evaluate fair support arrangements, and advocate for their financial security—both now and in the future.
Need Help Navigating Alimony?
If you’re considering divorce or are already in the process, let Hecht & Associates guide you through the complexities of spousal support. We’re here to protect your interests with strategic counsel and strong advocacy.
Contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation.