- How temporary support is determined
- How permanent support is determined
- FAQ
- How to Understand and Manage Temporary vs. Permanent Support in Colorado
In Colorado, maintenance, also referred to as alimony, can be ordered for two different phases of divorce: 1) during the divorce proceedings, which is referred to as "temporary maintenance," and 2) after the divorce is finalized, which is "permanent maintenance."
How is temporary support decided in Colorado?
Temporary support, or temporary maintenance, is granted by the court when one spouse demonstrates their need for financial support during the divorce process – that is, between the filing for divorce and the granting of it. The court tends to favor the "status quo," meaning they understand both spouses are accustomed to a certain lifestyle and that it should be reasonably maintained during the process.
What is granted by temporary maintenance orders is not necessarily what will be granted under permanent maintenance.
How is permanent support decided in Colorado?
With permanent support, or permanent maintenance, the payments are part of the Permanent Final Orders issued by the court or the Agreement that you and your spouse came up with together. Permanent maintenance does not necessarily have the same components that were granted under temporary maintenance. Further, permanent maintenance does not mean that it will necessarily be paid for the rest of the receiving spouse's lifetime. Rather, it is permanent for the duration determined by the court.
Factors for determining maintenance include but are not limited to the length of the marriage; the standard of living established during the marriage; the value of household management, including childcare; the income level of the parties, as well as their future earning potential; and the age and health of the parties.
If you and your spouse are working through your divorce together, you can determine your own agreed-upon maintenance terms. The court-ordered maintenance occurs if there is no agreement between spouses. The court has to honor the agreement you have mutually decided unless it is found to be "unconscionable," meaning it is unreasonable by way of depriving one party of their entitlement.
FAQ
What is temporary spousal support in Colorado?
Temporary support is ordered during the divorce process to cover living expenses until the case is finalized.
What is permanent spousal support in Colorado?
Permanent support, also known as maintenance, starts after divorce is finalized and may last for a set period or, rarely, indefinitely.
How is temporary support calculated?
It’s generally based on a formula that considers both spouses’ incomes.
How is permanent support decided?
Courts evaluate marriage length, financial resources, the standard of living during marriage, and earning capacity.
Can support orders be modified?
Yes. Both temporary and permanent support orders may be adjusted if financial circumstances change significantly.
How to Understand and Manage Temporary vs. Permanent Support in Colorado
Identify the type of support you may receive or pay
Determine if you qualify for temporary or permanent support, or both.
Gather financial documents
Provide income and expense records so the court can assess your situation.
Understand calculation methods
Know that temporary support is often formula-driven, while permanent support depends on broader factors.
Review and negotiate terms
Collaborate with your spouse or present your case in court to ensure fairness.
Seek modifications if circumstances change
Support isn’t set in stone—significant changes in finances may justify revisiting the order.
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