4 Things To Know When Determining Alimony

Are you in the divorce process and have questions about alimony? Read these 4 things to know when determining alimony, then call us today.

1) Support Alimony

4 Things To Know When Determining AlimonySupport alimony in the state of Oklahoma is intended to allow one party to transition economically and cushion that economic impact to a state of independence, where they’re going from having been married and potentially financially dependent on the spouse, to a period where they need to be financially independent. Alimony can be awarded to allow that transition to be a little easier. In doing so, the court will consider a number of factors, including the need of the party requesting it and the ability of the other spouse to pay that requested amount. Then there will be a factual evidentiary finding to determine whether any amount should be ordered.

2) Will I Have To Pay Support Alimony?

There is no set formula in the state of Oklahoma. It’s going to be an analysis based on the financial resources available to both parties, unlike child support, which will be set through a child support calculator guideline table. You’ll have to consult with an experienced divorce attorney to determine whether you will be required to pay support alimony or whether you will be entitled to receive support alimony.

3) Calculating Alimony

In Oklahoma, it’s generally a factual issue, where the party requesting alimony says they have a need for the financial support, and the other party that would be paying is stating whether they have the ability to pay that financial request. In doing so, the court will assess all of the factors, and it’s important that the party that is requested to pay alimony prepare a budget that will show whether they have the ability to even pay the requested amount. Likewise, the requesting party should prepare a budget of what their monthly expenses are, what their monthly income is, and how this requested amount will help transition them into a state of independence after the divorce proceeds on.

4) How Long Does Alimony Last?

It is not a clear cut determination about how long that will last. It’s a case-by-case factual assessment that we’ll have to assess with your case specifically. What happens is the court needs to at least set what’s considered a sub-certain amount, which will be paid out in a monthly amount, for a period of however many months, as the court orders to conclude with a final, total number. Again, it will be dependent on financial resources and requirements of both parties to the case.


Are you or a loved one going through the divorce process and have questions about alimony? After reading these 4 things to know when determining alimony, contact a Stillwater alimony lawyer at Murray Law Firm today for a free confidential consultation and case evaluation. Let our experience work for you.

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James V. Murray, Esq. Avatar

James V. Murray, Esq.

Attorney University of Oklahoma Law School, Oklahoma State Bar

As a personal injury lawyer, I enjoy helping people. It’s easily the most satisfying part of my job and it’s what drives me to come in to work every day. Those whom I help are real people with real problems.

In personal injury, it’s important to remember that clients are more than just clients. I always make sure that I do. Through my cases, I am able to truly help the people who need it.

When I’m not in the office, I spend time with my wife, who I love very much, and volunteer at my church. I also work extensively with the Boy Scouts of America because I truly believe in the importance of instilling great values in our nation’s young men.

Areas of Expertise: Personal Injury, Car Accidents, Truck Accidents, Motorcycle Accidents, Bus Accidents, Construction Accidents, Dog Bites / Attacks, Slip and Fall Injuries, Pedestrian Accidents, Bicycle Accidents, Wrongful Death, Family Law, Divorce, Grounds for Divorce, Child Custody, Child Support, Alimony / Spousal Support, Division of Assets, Estate Planning, Probate, Criminal Defense, DUI / DUAI
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