Massachusetts significantly reformed its alimony laws in 2011 with the Alimony Reform Act, which set clear guidelines for duration and amount of spousal support.
Types of alimony:
General term alimony: The most common type, awarded when there is an economic need. Duration is tied to the length of the marriage — for a marriage of 5 years or less, alimony lasts no more than 50% of the marriage length. For 10-15 years, no more than 70%. For 15-20 years, no more than 80%.
Rehabilitative alimony: Awarded for up to 5 years to allow a spouse to gain skills or education for self-support.
Reimbursement alimony: Compensates a spouse who supported the other through education or career advancement, for marriages of 5 years or less.
Transitional alimony: Awarded for up to 3 years to help a spouse adjust to a new lifestyle or location after a marriage of 5 years or less.
Amount: Generally, alimony should not exceed 30-35% of the difference between the parties' gross incomes. Courts also consider factors like age, health, employment, and economic contributions during the marriage.