When considering a divorce in Maryland, it is important to understand how spousal support (commonly known as alimony) might affect the financial dynamics between you and your spouse. Spousal support refers to court-ordered payments made by one spouse to the other, intended to assist the receiving spouse in becoming financially independent.
In Maryland, there are three main types of spousal support, each serving different purposes depending on the circumstances of the spouses.
Indefinite alimony
This type of alimony may be awarded when a spouse is deemed unable to become self-supporting because of age, illness, disability, or a significant disparity in living standards between the two spouses. This form of alimony is open-ended and continues indefinitely unless modified or terminated due to specific circumstances, such as the death or remarriage of either spouse.
Pendente lite alimony
Pendente lite refers to temporary support that one spouse may receive while the divorce is still pending. Its purpose is to maintain the financial situation until the court makes a final ruling. This type of alimony does not guarantee that further support will be awarded after the divorce is finalized, but it helps ensure that the lower-earning spouse has the financial means to support themselves throughout the divorce proceedings.
Rehabilitative alimony
Rehabilitative spousal support is intended to help the receiving spouse become self-sufficient by providing monetary support while they obtain education, training or employment. This type of alimony is typically awarded for a set period, giving the spouse time to develop the necessary skills to support themselves financially. The goal is to help the spouse transition to independence rather than offering long-term support.
Judges may consider several factors when awarding spousal support, including the ability of the requesting spouse to support themselves, their age and health, the length of the marriage and what contributions each spouse made to the marriage. Seeking legal guidance can be helpful to address your specific situation and protect your interests throughout the divorce process.
