Partner alimony

Persons who are not at all or only partly able to fend for themselves after a divorce are eligible for financial support from their ex-partner if the ex-partner has the financial means to pay alimony.
The standard of living prior to the divorce is also taken into account. Basically, ex-partners can come to an agreement without intervention of a third party. Subsequently, these agreements can be laid down officially. If this procedure turns out to be unsuccessful, the court can decide on the alimony payment, taking into account how much financial support is required and the income level of the partner. Until 1994, paying alimony could be a lifelong obligation. Since 1994, the maximum period is set at twelve years. If the marriage has not lasted more than five years and there are no children, the alimony obligation period cannot exceed the duration of the marriage.