What are the guidelines for spousal support in Iowa?

The guidelines for spousal support in Iowa include the following factors:

• The length of the marriage
• The age and health of the parties
• The distribution of property
• Each spouse’s educational level
• The earning capacity of the spouse seeking alimony
• The feasibility of the spouse seeking alimony to become self-sufficient
• The tax consequences
• Any agreement made by the two spouses
• The provisions of a prenuptial agreement
• Other factors that the court considers to be relevant

There is temporary, short-term, and long-term or permanent spousal support in the state of Iowa.  The needs and circumstances of the parties involved will determine which type of spousal support is awarded.  Either party can apply for alimony; the court will consider whether to award alimony or not, and if so, for how long and for how much.

The amount and/or duration of alimony can be modified at any time by the court.  The court will consider any changed circumstances involving either or both parties to determine whether the amount and/or duration should be modified or not.  Each case of alimony will be determined on a case-by-case basis.

Marital fault in Iowa is considered present when there is a breakdown of the marriage relationship, legitimate objects of the marriage have been destroyed, and there is no reasonable chance for the marriage to be resurrected. 

Talk to an Iowa family law attorney for a case review and for obtaining legal advice regarding your options under Iowa family law and Iowa spousal support laws.