When a marriage comes to an end, there are often many difficult decisions to make, and one of the most crucial is the issue of alimony, also known as spousal support. Alimony is a financial arrangement designed to provide support to a spouse who is financially dependent on their former partner. In the state of Oklahoma, alimony is a common topic in divorce proceedings, and understanding how it works is essential for anyone going through this process. In this blog post, we'll provide an overview of alimony in Oklahoma, including its types, factors considered, and recent developments in the law.

Types of Alimony in Oklahoma

Oklahoma law recognizes various types of alimony, each serving a specific purpose:

Temporary Alimony: Temporary alimony may be awarded during divorce proceedings to help a financially dependent spouse cover immediate living expenses.

Rehabilitative Alimony: This type of alimony is intended to support a spouse while they acquire job skills, education, or training to become financially self-sufficient.

Permanent Alimony: Permanent alimony is less common and typically awarded in long-term marriages when one spouse is unable to achieve financial independence due to factors like age or health.

Factors Considered in Alimony Determination

The decision to award alimony in Oklahoma is based on several factors, including:

Need and Ability to Pay: The court will assess the financial needs of the spouse seeking alimony and the ability of the other spouse to make payments.

Length of Marriage: Longer marriages may increase the likelihood of alimony being awarded.

Standard of Living: The court aims to maintain the standard of living established during the marriage, as closely as possible.

Contributions to the Marriage: Contributions made by each spouse, both financial and non-financial, are considered.

Property Division: The division of marital property and assets can influence alimony decisions.

Health and Age: The health and age of each spouse may be factors in determining the need for alimony.

Recent Developments

It's important to stay informed about recent developments in Oklahoma's alimony laws, as these may affect your case. Laws and regulations can change, and new court decisions can set precedents. Consulting with an experienced family law attorney in Oklahoma is crucial to ensure you have the most up-to-date information and guidance tailored to your situation.

Conclusion

Alimony is a complex and often contentious issue in divorce cases. Understanding the types of alimony, the factors considered in alimony determinations, and any recent legal developments in Oklahoma is essential for anyone navigating divorce proceedings. Given the intricacies of family law, it's advisable to seek legal counsel from an experienced attorney who can provide you with personalized advice and represent your interests effectively in court.

If you are facing divorce and have questions about alimony in Oklahoma, don't hesitate to reach out to Brown & Flesch, PLLC.  We will be happy to assist you.