WYOMING Part 43

Support for you: This is also referred to as alimony. If you are getting separated or divorced, a court can award you temporary or permanent alimony. *5 This support is for a former spouse who is unable to adequately provide for himself or herself. *6 In deciding whether to award you (or your spouse) alimony, a judge will look at any factors that s/he feels are important to make a just and equitable decision.*7 A few of the factors a judge may look at are:

    •         Your need for payment/ the other parent's ability to pay*8

    •         How long you were married*9

    •         The age, physical and emotional health of you and the other parent*10

    •         The standard of living you had in your marriage and how likely it is that you will be able to maintain a similar standard of living*11

    •         How much both parents can earn for a living, and the future abilities of each to earn a living *11

    •         A judge may award alimony as a "lump sum" or as a series of payment over time.*12

There are no strict rules for alimony and property distribution and the judge’s ruling will depend on the specific facts of your case.*13 Additionally, the judge has the discretion to alter the alimony order at a later date if one of the parties to the action petitions for a change.*14