There are several types of alimony available in Oklahoma divorce cases. The court may award alimony—also called spousal support—to help a financially dependent spouse maintain stability after the marriage ends. Alimony is not automatic, and it’s distinct from child support. Instead, courts consider the specific circumstances of each spouse and determine whether support is necessary, how much to award, and how long it should last.
1. Temporary Alimony (Pendente Lite Support)
This is support that a court awards during the divorce process. When one spouse needs financial help to cover living expenses or legal fees before finalizing the divorce, the court may grant temporary support. This type of alimony ends when the divorce decree is entered or when the court modifies the order.
2. Transitional Alimony
Also known as rehabilitative alimony, this support helps the receiving spouse transition into financial independence. Courts often award it when a spouse needs time to go back to school, complete job training, or re-enter the workforce. The payments are usually limited in duration and must be justified by a specific need or plan for self-sufficiency.
3. Lump-Sum Alimony
Lump-sum alimony involves a fixed, one-time payment or a series of payments that are not subject to modification. Courts often use lump-sum alimony to divide property when one spouse buys out the other’s interest or when both parties want to avoid future contact. This type of alimony is non-modifiable, and courts may award it even if the receiving spouse doesn’t need long-term financial support.
4. Permanent Alimony
Though rare, permanent spousal support may be awarded in long-term marriages where one spouse cannot become self-supporting due to age, health, or disability. The court may order indefinite support, subject to modification or termination if circumstances change (e.g., remarriage or improved income).
How Oklahoma Courts Decide on Alimony
Oklahoma does not follow a strict formula for alimony. Instead, courts evaluate several factors, including:
- The recipient spouse’s need for support
- The paying spouse’s ability to provide support
- The length of the marriage
- The standard of living established during the marriage
- Each spouse’s age, health, and earning potential
- Contributions to the marriage (including homemaking or supporting the other’s career)
These factors will help determine which, if any, types of alimony may be awarded.
Can You Modify or Terminate Alimony?
Most alimony orders in Oklahoma are modifiable if either party experiences a substantial change in circumstances, such as job loss, disability, or increased income. Alimony also terminates automatically if the receiving spouse remarries or either party dies.
Tulsa Divorce Attorneys
Whether you expect to pay or receive spousal support, it’s important to understand your rights and obligations. A qualified Oklahoma divorce attorney can help you present a strong case for or against alimony and ensure that any award is fair and appropriate. Contact us today at Tulsa Divorce Attorneys & Associates by calling 539-302-0303 or contact us online.