WISCONSIN Part 64

How long does maintenance last?

The court usually sets a definite term for maintenance (in other words, the award will have a start date and an end date). There are some exceptions to this rule, however: If the marriage has lasted a very long time or the spouse requesting maintenance is unable to work, for example, the court might order maintenance indefinitely.

If maintenance is ordered for a set period of time and the spouse receiving it believes it should continue beyond the end date, he or she can file a motion requesting an extension. This must be done before the maintenance award expires, however.