Spousal Support in Wyoming
State-specific overview · Family Law
Wyoming courts award spousal support based on need and ability to pay, with no statutory formula or mandatory durational limits.
How Wyoming treats Spousal Support
Wyoming law does not establish a specific formula for spousal support; instead, courts apply discretionary factors including the financial resources of each spouse, the standard of living during marriage, and the length of the marriage. Courts may award temporary support during divorce proceedings and permanent support in the final decree, though permanent awards are less frequently granted. Wyoming courts emphasize that spousal support should enable the receiving spouse to become self-supporting when feasible. Modification is available upon a material and substantial change in circumstances.
The general definition of Spousal Support
Court-ordered payments from one spouse to another, typically during or after divorce proceedings.
Spousal support, also called maintenance or alimony, is money one spouse pays to the other to help with living expenses during or after a divorce. It recognizes that one spouse may have sacrificed career opportunities during the marriage or may have lower earning potential. Courts consider factors like the length of the marriage, each spouse's income and earning ability, and their age and health when determining if support is appropriate and how much to award. Spousal support can be temporary (lasting only during the divorce process) or permanent (continuing indefinitely or for a set period).
Read the full Spousal Support entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in Wyoming.