My spouse makes more money than I do, roughly twice the amount, making me the dependent spouse. This was not the case during most of our marriage. Can the dependent spouse be required to pay alimony in this case? If the Judge sets the Alimony amount what is the basis of the dollar figure? Assets, salary, fault or any other issue? Can you give an example? Can alimony change once set?
Alimony is based on the financial positions of the parties during the most recent years of the marriage. It is based on the reasonable need or shortfall of the dependant spouse and the ability to pay, or surplus of the supporting spouse. Alimony which is set forth in a court order is subject to change upon motion of a party showing a substantial change in circumstances.