Rehabilitative Alimony in Oklahoma
In a divorce where one spouse earns significantly less or is financially dependent on their spouse, the financially dependent spouse will frequently receive some form of spousal support, also known as alimony. In situations where the recipient spouse is deemed able to reenter the workforce, Oklahoma family law attorneys may negotiate for a type of temporary spousal support called rehabilitative alimony.
What is Rehabilitative Alimony?
Rehabilitative alimony is a form of temporary financial support intended to help the receiving spouse reenter the job market and gain the education or training necessary to become financially self-sufficient. In simple terms, the supporting spouse provides temporary support to allow the receiving spouse a chance to get back on their feet.
This kind of temporary alimony is most commonly awarded when one spouse has spent a significant portion of the marriage out of the workforce—perhaps staying home to raise children or support the other spouse’s career. Rehabilitative alimony provides time and temporary support for things like:
- Receiving higher education or professional certifications
- Searching for and securing stable employment
- Gaining work experience and job training
Read our full overview of all rights stay-at-home moms and wives have during Oklahoma divorce proceedings to learn more.
How Does Rehabilitative Alimony Work?
Rehabilitative alimony is not permanent. It usually comes with a timeline or rehabilitative plan that outlines how long support will be provided and what steps the receiving spouse is expected to take during that period.
Let’s say one spouse has a college degree but hasn’t worked in over ten years. The court may order rehabilitative alimony for two or three years while that person updates their skills, completes a refresher course, or goes through job training. During that time, they receive financial help from the supporting spouse.
The goal of rehabilitative alimony is for the receiving spouse to become financially independent—not to receive long-term financial support indefinitely.
How Does Rehabilitative Alimony Differ from Other Types of Alimony?
Unlike permanent alimony and longer-term forms of spousal support, which may be designed to help maintain a spouse's standard of living during the marriage, rehabilitative alimony is generally focused on helping the receiving spouse obtain education, training, or other resources needed to return to the workforce or increase their earning capacity.
Reimbursement alimony, on the other hand, is generally intended to compensate a spouse for financial contributions or sacrifices made during the duration of the marriage that benefited the other spouse, such as supporting a spouse while they completed professional education or training. Rather than focusing on helping one spouse become self-supporting, reimbursement alimony focuses on recognizing certain contributions made during the marriage.
What Do Oklahoma Courts Consider to Award Rehabilitative Alimony?
When determining whether to award rehabilitative alimony and for how long, Oklahoma courts (and courts in other states) look at several factors, including:
- The length of the marriage
- The education level and work history of each spouse
- If child support will be awarded
- The financial needs of the receiving spouse
- The earning capacity of both parties
- The time and cost required for the supported spouse to become employable
Each case is unique, and the court has discretion to decide what is fair and reasonable based on the specific circumstances. Because alimony laws and eligibility can vary greatly based on the facts of each divorce, working with an experienced Oklahoma divorce attorney will help protect your best interests whether you stand to be the recipient spouse or the supporting spouse.
Can Rehabilitative Alimony Be Changed?
Yes, rehabilitative alimony can be modified, but only under certain conditions. If there’s a significant change in circumstances, either party may request the court to review and adjust the support.
For example:
- The receiving spouse may ask for an extension if they’re still struggling to find suitable employment.
- The paying spouse may request a reduction or termination if they lose their job or experience a major drop in income.
It’s important to note that you cannot simply stop paying or ignore the court order. If your situation changes, talk to an attorney right away so the proper legal steps can be taken.
Contact Us Today!
At Ball Morse Lowe, PLLC, we’re committed to guiding you through every step of the divorce process with clarity and care. If you have questions about rehabilitative alimony or any other family law matter, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our experienced Oklahoma divorce lawyers are ready to help you move forward with confidence. Call us now at 405.701.5355 for a free consultation!
