Can a person request alimony after the divorce is complete?
In many divorces, neither party receives any alimony. This is because the dependent spouse has sufficient income to support herself, and maintain a reasonable standard of living. However, unforeseen circumstances may change after the divorce to justify alimony. (ie, serious illness and an inability to work) In cases such as these, the sick spouse will file an application for alimony even though the judgment of divorce does not provide for any. If the case has merit, then the court will set a plenary hearing to determine if an award of alimony should be made. This type of hearing is also called a Lepis hearing. The court will examine the financial situation of both parties, the standard of living enjoyed during the marriage, the sick spouse’s current prognosis, and any other relevant factor.
