Unlike Child Support, Alimony is not calculated using a formula. Rather it is based on a combination of many factors which the court considers in determining whether alimony should be awarded, as well as the duration and the amount of the award. Although the court considers all the factors in making an alimony determination, it does not necessarily give equal weight to each factor. Alimony is not viewed in isolation. The specific circumstances of each case determines how the court will view alimony and the weight it will give to each factor in determining an alimony award. The factors the court considers are:
- Length of the marriage
- Causes for the dissolution of the marriage
- Age
- Health
- Station
- Occupation
- Amount and sources of income
- Vocational skills
- Employability
- Estate
- Needs of each of the parties
- Any assignment of property
- Desirability of a custodial parent securing employment
At the time of dissolution, the court may order either party to pay alimony to the other. In addition the court may direct that the payor provide life insurance to secure an alimony obligation, if appropriate.
