Family Law

When is alimony awarded?

The Court can award alimony to either party on a Complaint for Alimony or as part of an action for Annulment or Divorce. Depending on the facts of a particular case, alimony can be awarded to one spouse while the action is pending (called pendente lite alimony) as...

When does alimony terminate?

Unless the parties agree otherwise, alimony terminates: (1) on the death of either party; (2) on the recipient’s marriage; (3) if the Court finds termination is necessary to avoid a harsh and inequitable result; or (4) on a date specified by the Court or by the...

What are the factors for awarding alimony?

In Maryland, when awarding alimony, the Court must consider all factors necessary for a fair and equitable award. The factors for alimony include: (1) the ability to be wholly or partly self-supporting; (2) the time necessary to gain sufficient education or training...

How long can alimony be awarded?

In Maryland, alimony is typically awarded for a period of “rehabilitation” until the spouse receiving alimony can be expected to become self-supporting through education, training or work experience (e.g., 3 – 5 years). The Court can award indefinite alimony if it...