Alimony is a court-ordered payment made by one former spouse to the other following a divorce. The purpose of alimony is to help the lower-earning spouse maintain a similar standard of living to what they had during the marriage.
Understanding alimony in Arkansas can help you prepare for your case and pursue an order that fits your needs.
Types of alimony in Arkansas
In Arkansas, there are three main types of alimony. Temporary alimony is often awarded during divorce proceedings to help a lower-earning spouse cover living expenses for a pre-determined period. Rehabilitative alimony helps a recipient spouse become self-sufficient while they gain work experience, training or education. Permanent alimony is rare and typically only awarded in the case of a long-term marriage where one spouse cannot support themselves due to age, disability or illness.
Factors that affect alimony decisions
When determining alimony, Arkansas courts consider several factors. The length of the marriage is one factor. Each spouse’s age, health and financial needs also matter. The courts consider the standard of living established during the marriage and each spouse’s role in contributing to that standard.
Options for modifying or terminating alimony
You can request a modification to your alimony order if you experience a significant change in circumstances. Some of the things that the court might consider is the remarriage of the recipient spouse, a substantial change in income or a change in either party’s living situation.
Understanding how alimony works in Arkansas can help individuals navigate the divorce process more effectively.
