Spousal support, also known as alimony, is financial assistance that one spouse may be ordered to pay the other during or after a divorce or legal separation. Its purpose is to provide economic fairness, especially when one spouse was financially dependent during the marriage or sacrificed career opportunities to support the household.

In North Dakota, spousal support is governed by North Dakota Century Code § 14-05-24.1. Courts in Bismarck, Minot, Williston, and Dickinson consider a variety of factors when awarding support, including the length of the marriage, each spouse’s earning capacity, age and health, standard of living during the marriage, and financial need vs. ability to pay.

Spousal support may be temporary (rehabilitative) to help a spouse become self-supporting, or permanent in long-term marriages where economic disparity is significant. These payments can be modified or terminated in the future if circumstances change substantially.

At Heartland Law Office, we represent clients seeking fair spousal support — whether pursuing it or defending against excessive demands. We ensure your financial situation is fully understood and that the support arrangement is balanced, realistic, and legally enforceable.