Types of Alimony

• Temporary Alimony (Pendente Lite): 

Awarded during the divorce proceedings to help maintain the financial status quo until a final decision is reached.

• Rehabilitative Alimony: 

This type of support is granted for a limited time, helping the recipient spouse gain education or job skills needed to become self-sufficient.

Source: People’s Law

• Permanent Alimony: 

Granted in cases where the recipient spouse is unable to achieve financial independence, often due to age, health conditions, or a long-term absence from the workforce.

Source: People’s Law

• Lump-Sum Alimony: 

Paid as a fixed amount, either in a single payment or in structured installments. This is often used to simplify post-divorce financial obligations.

Source: People’s Law

Factors for Calculating Alimony

Virginia courts consider several factors under § 20-107.1, including:

• Duration of the Marriage: Longer marriages often result in longer alimony periods.
• Contributions to the Marriage: Consideration of both financial and non-financial contributions.
• Standard of Living: Efforts are made to maintain a similar standard of living for both parties post-divorce.
• Financial Circumstances: Includes income, earning capacity, and financial resources of both parties (People’s Law).

Relevant Case Law

Northcutt v. Northcutt (1984): The court emphasized rehabilitative alimony should focus on enabling the recipient to gain self-sufficiency (People’s Law).