How long is alimony typically paid?

Alimony, or spousal support, is a type of financial assistance one spouse gives the other after a divorce in Washington. The duration of alimony depends on various factors, such as the length of the marriage, the financial circumstance of each spouse, the age of each spouse, and the ability of each spouse to pay or receive alimony. In Washington, courts may order alimony for a short or long-term period. The amount and duration of alimony will be decided either by agreement of both parties or by court order. Generally, alimony can be paid on a periodic basis for a period of time such as six months, one year, two years, or more. Alimony may also be ordered to be paid in a lump sum. In some cases, alimony may be awarded for an indefinite period of time, such as when one spouse is disabled and unable to support themselves. In other cases, alimony may be awarded for a set period of time, such as when one spouse has been out of the work force for a long period of time and needs financial support to enable them to become financially independent. Alimony payments are typically made until either the receiving spouse remarries or either spouse dies. In any case, alimony should be modified or terminated whenever circumstances warrant it. Overall, the length of alimony payments vary based on the individual case and decides by the court.

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