17 Alimony Factors

General Rule—Where a divorce decree has been entered, the court may allow alimony as it deems reasonable, to either party only if it finds that alimony is necessary.

Relevant Factors—In determining whether alimony is necessary and in determining the nature, amount, duration and manner of payment of alimony, the court shall consider all relevant factors, including:

1. 1. The relative earnings and earning capacities of the parties.
   2. The ages and the physical, mental, and emotional conditions of the parties.
   3. The sources of income of both parties, including, but not limited to, medical, retirement, insurance or other benefits.
   4. The expectancies and inheritances of the parties.
   5. The duration of the marriage.
   6. The contribution of one party to the education, training or increased earning power of the other party.
   7. The extent to which the earning power, expenses or financial obligations of a party will be affected by reason of serving as the custodian of a minor child.
   8. The Standard of Living established during the marriage.
   9. The relative education of the parties and the time necessary to acquire sufficient education or training to enable the party seeking alimony to find appropriate employment.
   10. The relative asses and liabilities of the parties.
   11. The property brought into the marriage by either party.
   12. The contribution of a spouse as homemaker.
   13. The relative needs of the parties
   14. The marital misconduct of either of the parties during he marriage, except from the final date of separation, except that the court shall l consider the abuse of one party by the other party.
   15. Tax ramifications
   16. Whether the party seeking alimony lacks sufficient property, to provide for the party’s reasonable needs.
   17. Whether the party seeking alimony is incapable of self-support through appropriate employment.