Alimony
Alimony, in law, an allowance paid by a man or woman, under a court order, to his or her former marriage partner. The court determines whether or not alimony will be granted. The purpose is to provide financial support, and the amount is determined partly by the needs of the ex-partner and partly by the financial condition of the person who must pay. In most situations, the former husband pays alimony; if, however, the former wife was the principal wage earner, the court may order her to pay. The court normally orders alimony at the time it grants a divorce.
The court may at any time change the amount of alimony if a change in the financial circumstances of the former husband or former wife warrants new arrangements. Alimony is generally paid until the recipient remarries or dies. Rehabilitative alimony is sometimes granted to former spouses who are in good health and have no minor children. It lasts only a limited time (usually three years), during which the recipient is expected to prepare for a job by obtaining special training or schooling.
When the divorce involves minor children, the court may also order payment of child support to the former spouse. Alimony and child support are often paid together but are legally distinct.
Since payment of alimony is ordered by a court, a person who refuses to pay may be sent to jail for contempt of court.