Can I get alimony?

Once called "alimony," spousal support is now referred to as "maintenance" in Washington. The amount of maintenance and its duration is entirely in the court's discretion to grant and depends on the circumstances of each case.

In determining the need for maintenance, and the appropriate duration and amount, the court will consider:

• financial resources of each party
• work experience and earning prospects of each spouse, including consideration for the time required for one spouse to obtain training for becoming employed or self-supporting
• age and physical and emotional conditions of each party
• the duration of the marriage
• the standard of living established during the marriage

Maintenance will not be awarded or withheld as punishment for marital misconduct. The duration and amount depend upon the facts and circumstances of each case.