What are some of the common labels and definitions used?

Some of the more common labels and definitions used to describe spousal and family support include:

Alimony – Payments made from one spouse to the other during a separation or a divorce (dissolution of marriage). Also known as spousal support.

Child Support – As a general rule, both spouses have a duty to provide support for their minor children.

Family Support – A combination of alimony and child support. Similar in nature to separate maintenance payments.

Rehabilitative Support – Payments made from one spouse to the other over a period of time to enable the supported spouse to obtain a career and become self-supporting. Also known as alimony and spousal support.

Separate Maintenance Payments – Payments made from one spouse to the other when they are no longer living together as husband and wife for the support of the spouse and the children in his/her custody. Similar in nature to family support.

Spousal Support – Payments made from one spouse to the other during a separation or a divorce (dissolution of marriage). Also known as alimony.