Alimony falls under a few definitions in the world of modern divorce, and it can be granted even before the marriage is dissolved. Alimony court hearings can demand temporary payments to a spouse during a separation or divorce trial, and can be changed even after the divorce has been finalized. Alimony is entirely different from child support and can go from a husband to his former wife, or in reverse. A 1979 Supreme Court case permanently removed gender specifications and viewed alimony as something granted to the spouse requesting support, regardless of gender, if the other earned a higher income. In most cases where alimony is concerned, the court will usually accept requests for review and adjustments when necessary, and should the paying spouse fail to meet any alimony terms they can be seen as being in contempt of court.