Alimony, also known as spousal support, is a financial payment made after a divorce to help a lesser-earning spouse maintain a standard of living similar to what they experienced during the marriage. In Connecticut, a court awards alimony with the primary goal of relieving that spouse’s economic need. However, courts do not follow a strict formula for calculating the amount and duration of alimony payments.

Connecticut judges have considerable discretion to evaluate the circumstances of each case and determine an appropriate award. Connecticut General Statutes Section 46b-82 outlines several factors that must be considered, including:

  1. Length of the marriage — The duration of the marriage is an important consideration. Longer marriages are more likely to result in alimony awards, as the financial and lifestyle interdependence between spouses tends to increase over time.

  2. Age, health and needs of the spouses — A younger, healthier spouse may be expected to achieve financial independence more quickly, whereas an older or less healthy spouse may need extended or permanent support.

  3. Income and assets — Judges consider the income of both spouses as well as each spouse’s share of equitable distribution of marital property, which may reduce or eliminate the need for alimony.

  4. Earning capacity and employment history — A spouse who sacrificed career advancement to support the family or raise children may be entitled to alimony to offset the economic disadvantage caused by unpreparedness to reenter the workplace.

  5. Contributions to the marriage — Homemaking and caregiving are recognized as valid occupations even though they do not generate direct income. A spouse engaged full-time in these activities may be entitled to reasonable support.

Marital fault, such as infidelity or other misconduct, can sometimes influence alimony awards. Connecticut is a "no-fault" divorce state, meaning a spouse does not need to prove wrongdoing to obtain a divorce. However, courts may consider fault when determining alimony if the misconduct has a significant impact on the financial circumstances of the marriage. One example is wasteful dissipation of assets, where one spouse has recklessly spent or hidden marital property. Also, extreme misconduct, such as domestic violence or abusive behavior, may influence the court’s decision if it has materially affected the victimized spouse's ability to earn a living or maintain stability.

Alimony awards in Connecticut are not necessarily permanent. Either party can request a modification if there is a substantial change in circumstances, such as job loss, a significant increase in income, or a change in the recipient’s financial needs.

The O’Neil Law Firm assists Connecticut spouses in all financial aspects of divorce, including alimony awards. We serve residents of Hartford, Middlesex and Tolland counties. For a free initial consultation, call 866-418-7593 or contact us online.