Alimony, spousal support, spousal maintenance, or domestic partner support (collectively, spousal support) is generally financial support in the form of periodic payments (usually monthly) paid by one spouse or domestic partner to the other spouse or domestic partner upon divorce.

The person paying spousal support or the person receiving spousal support may seek to modify the court’s order for support—usually by increasing it or decreasing it—due to a material change in circumstances of the person paying support or the person receiving support.

Spousal support laws vary from state to state and are generally located in a state’s statutes—often in the family or domestic code.

In North Dakota, alimony, also known as spousal support, is financial assistance provided by one spouse to the other during or after a divorce. The purpose of alimony is to help the receiving spouse maintain a standard of living similar to that enjoyed during the marriage, especially if there is a significant disparity in earning capacities. North Dakota law allows for different types of spousal support, including temporary, rehabilitative, and permanent support, depending on the circumstances of the case. The amount and duration of spousal support are determined by considering several factors, such as the length of the marriage, the age and health of the parties, their earning abilities, and the contributions of each spouse to the marriage. Either party can request a modification of the spousal support order if there is a material change in circumstances, such as a significant change in income or employment status. The request for modification must be made to the court, and the court will decide whether to adjust the support based on the current situation of the parties.