What is alimony?

Alimony refers specifically to the financial support that one spouse must provide to the other after a divorce. This payment is intended to assist the lower-earning or non-working spouse in maintaining a similar standard of living post-divorce. Alimony can be temporary or permanent, depending on the circumstances of the marriage and the needs of the spouse receiving it.

The other options address different aspects of financial support or legal arrangements. Child support is focused specifically on the financial responsibilities of a parent for the care of their children, rather than support between spouses. A settlement for property disputes involves the division of assets acquired during the marriage, which is a different legal consideration from alimony. Payments for legal services pertain to fees charged by attorneys rather than personal financial support between spouses.