Editing Alimony (section)

==Reckoning==
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Once [[dissolution (law)|dissolution]] proceedings commence, either party may seek interim or [[pendente lite]] support during the course of the [[litigation]].

Where a [[divorce]] or dissolution of marriage ([[civil union]]) is granted, either party may ask for post-marital alimony.  It is not an absolute right, but may be granted, the amount and terms varying with the circumstances.  If one party is already receiving support at the time of the divorce, the previous order is not automatically continued (although this can be requested), as the arguments for support during and after the marriage can be different.

Unless the parties agree on the terms of their divorce in a binding written [[legal instrument|instrument]], the court will make a determination based on the legal argument and the [[testimony]] submitted by both parties. This can be modified at any future date based on a change of circumstances by either party on proper notice to the other party and application to the court.  The courts are generally reluctant to modify an existing agreement unless the reasons are compelling.  In some jurisdictions the court always has jurisdiction to grant maintenance should one of the former spouses become a public charge.