How Long Do I Have to Pay Alimony to My Ex-Spouse in Oklahoma?

The length of alimony varies by each state and may or may not be ended based on certain changes like life circumstances or income. There are different levels of alimony like monthly alimony and temporary alimony that can depend on your ex-spouse’s income. Oklahoma does not require alimony for the divorce process, but this does not mean alimony is never awarded if the circumstances demand for spousal support. An Oklahoma Family Lawyer can help you figure out how long your alimony may last.  

Different Levels of Alimony 

Alimony involves an order that commands one spouse to pay the other a certain amount of money for a certain period. The two different levels of alimony are monthly payments and temporary payments. Monthly payments may go on for a significant time unless your ex-spouse’s income level improves or the alimony orders are changed with an appeal.

Temporary alimony does not last forever and usually only spans the length of the divorce proceedings. This is designed to help a financially unstable spouse move through the divorce trial without financial hardship. Once the divorce is finalized by the court, the judge can decide whether further alimony is necessary. Further alimony can depend on your ex-spouse’s financial situation after the divorce.

Judges normally base this decision off the ability of your ex-spouse to obtain a job and find financial support after the divorce. Other factors that may be considered include the standard of living that existed during the marriage, the length of marriage, what caused the divorce, and the ability of the other spouse to afford alimony. Alimony is not usually enforced on those who cannot support themselves.  

Other types of alimony are indefinite alimony and term-limited alimony. Indefinite alimony lasts until the spouse passes away and term-limited alimony only lasts a certain period. Some term-limited alimonies can last a few months or several years.  

Alimony Laws in Oklahoma 

Oklahoma courts consider certain factors when determining alimony, but do not make alimony mandatory for a divorce case. These factors include the ability of a spouse to pay alimony, the health of each spouse, spousal age, and future income. Future income accounts for how much money a spouse is likely to earn in the future.

Courts can issue a type of temporary alimony called spousal maintenance that ends once the divorce trial ends. Overall, the length of time you have to pay alimony depends on various factors like you and your ex-spouse’s financial states and previous marriage factors.

You may have to make monthly payments or you could be offered to pay a lump sum. Talking with a lawyer can help clarify your other options.  

Divorce Attorney in Oklahoma

Alimony is not something many people look forward to paying for, but the length of alimony is not always long. Consider hiring an Oklahoma Divorce Lawyer if you are going through a divorce and have questions about alimony. Call the Putnam Law Office today at (405)-849-9149 for a consultation. Mr. Putnam is an Oklahoma City, OK attorney who is dedicated to his clients.