How Missouri Courts Decide Alimony in Divorce Cases

Finder Law Serves Clients Across Jefferson City, Columbia, and Central Missouri

Kara McNabb • December 11, 2025

When a marriage ends, one of the most uncertain issues couples face is the question of alimony—also known as spousal maintenance in Missouri. Alimony is not automatically awarded in every divorce. Instead, judges consider a number of factors to determine whether it’s appropriate and, if so, how much and for how long it should last.

Understanding Alimony in Missouri

Under Missouri law, spousal maintenance is meant to help a spouse who cannot meet their reasonable financial needs after divorce. The purpose is not to punish one spouse or reward the other; it’s to promote fairness and stability as both parties transition to independent lives.

A court must first determine that the requesting spouse:

Lacks sufficient property, including marital assets received in the divorce, to meet reasonable needs.



Is unable to support themselves through appropriate employment, or is the custodian of a child requiring full-time care that makes employment impractical.


Only if both of these conditions are met will the judge move on to calculating the amount and duration.

Key Factors Courts Consider

Missouri Revised Statute § 452.335 outlines several factors that judges weigh when determining maintenance. These include:

The financial resources of each spouse, including marital and nonmarital property.


The time needed for the requesting spouse to acquire education or training to become self-sufficient.


The comparative earning capacities of both spouses.


The standard of living established during the marriage.


The duration of the marriage.


The age, health, and physical condition of each spouse.


The conduct of the parties during the marriage, when relevant to fairness.


The ability of the paying spouse to meet their own needs while providing support.


Because these factors are subjective, judges have broad discretion. No two cases are exactly the same.

Types and Duration of Alimony

Missouri courts can order either temporary or long-term maintenance. Temporary (or “pendente lite”) maintenance may be awarded while the divorce is pending. Long-term maintenance is typically granted after the divorce decree is finalized and may be for a fixed period or indefinite, depending on the circumstances.



Courts can also revisit maintenance if financial circumstances change substantially—such as a loss of income, retirement, or the recipient becoming self-supporting.

Strengthening Your Alimony Case

Whether you’re seeking support or defending against an alimony request, thorough preparation makes all the difference. Documentation of income, expenses, and lifestyle during marriage is critical. Legal representation ensures that your financial picture is accurately presented and that your rights are protected under Missouri law.



At Finder Law, LLC, we guide clients through the complexities of alimony and divorce with clarity and compassion. Our goal is to achieve fair and sustainable outcomes that allow you to move forward confidently.

Contact Finder Law, LLC

If you have questions about alimony or any other family law matter in Missouri, contact Daniel Finder at Finder Law, LLC. We offer personalized guidance to help you understand your options and make informed decisions about your future. The guidance of a knowledgeable lawyer can make a significant difference in achieving a fair and reasonable alimony arrangement.


Call us today to set up a consultation to discuss your specific needs today.

This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific guidance, please contact our office directly.

Breach of Contract Cases in Missouri: What You Need to Know

By Alyssa Finder • January 28, 2026
Contracts are a fundamental part of everyday life and business in Missouri. From employment agreements and real estate transactions to service contracts and business partnerships, contracts help define each party’s rights and obligations. When one party fails to live up to their end of the bargain, a breach of contract may occur —often leading to financial loss, disputes, and potential litigation. If you believe a contract has been breached, understanding Missouri contract law and your legal options is an important first step.

Morgan County Car Crash

By Alyssa Finder • January 28, 2026
A rear-end accident along MO-52 left two men injured on Wednesday afternoon near Quarry Ln, prompting a response from area emergency services. According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the crash occurred at approximately 3:30 p.m. when a 2023 Ford Transit van, driven westbound by a 33-year-old man from Eldon, struck the rear of a 2001 Dodge Dakota that was stopped in the westbound lane. The impact caused significant damage to both vehicles, with the Dakota sustaining total damage. Both came to rest on the roadway facing westbound. The driver of the Dodge, a 72-year-old man from Versailles, was not wearing a seatbelt and sustained moderate injuries. He was transported by Mid-Mo Ambulance to Lake Regional Hospital for further treatment. The Ford driver initially refused care but was later listed with moderate injuries and taken to the same facility. Garbers Towing removed both vehicles from the scene as troopers with Troop F completed their investigation. The cause of the crash remains under review. Rear-end crashes may seem minor at first, but they often cause serious and lasting injuries. Victims commonly suffer whiplash, neck and back injuries, herniated discs, concussions, spinal injuries, and soft-tissue damage that can worsen over time. The sudden force of being struck from behind can also lead to chronic pain, limited mobility, and missed time from work, even when vehicle damage appears minimal. If you or a loved one was injured in a rear-end collision, call Daniel Finder at Finder Law, LLC to discuss your options and get experienced personal injury representation. All facts of the incident are based on preliminary reporting done by The Missouri State Highway Patrol.

Audrain County Car Crash

By Alyssa Finder • January 27, 2026
Missouri State Highway Patrol troopers are investigating a crash that left one person dead involving two tractor trailers and one SUV, according to MSHP Troop F Sgt. Kyle Green. The crash happened between Centralia and Mexico on Missouri 22, near Audrain Road 215, according to an MSHP post. As of 9 a.m. Wednesday, the Missouri Department of Transportation planned to keep the highway closed for at least four more hours, according to Little Dixie Fire Protection District Chief Jason Henry. Emergency crews were first dispatched on reports of a semitruck on fire a few hours earlier that morning, Henry said. They were then paged again, but this time on reports of a second semitruck being rolled over and an SUV involved in the crash, according to the fire chief. Henry told KOMU 8 it appeared the SUV driver was ejected from the vehicle, adding the scene remains active. KOMU 8 was on the scene and saw one of the trucks involved was an Ameren vehicle. When a car is hit by a semi-truck, the sheer size and weight of the truck often lead to catastrophic injuries. Victims may suffer traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, crushed or broken bones, internal organ injuries, severe burns, and permanent disabilities, even in crashes that happen at relatively low speeds. These collisions frequently result in long recovery periods, overwhelming medical bills, and time away from work, while trucking companies and insurers move quickly to protect themselves. If you or someone you love has been injured in a crash involving a semi, call Daniel Finder at Finder Law, LLC to protect your rights and pursue the personal injury compensation you deserve. All facts of the incident are based on preliminary reporting done by The Missouri State Highway Patrol and KOMU.

Montgomery County Pedestrian Hit

By Alyssa Finder • January 27, 2026
A pedestrian who entered traffic on Interstate 70 at mile marker 169 in Montgomery County was hit by two vehicles in the westbound lanes on January 16, 2026. A crash report from the Missouri State Highway Patrol says a 29-year-old Kansas City, Missouri, man was hit by a 2025 Kia Sorento and a tractor-trailer – a 2026 International HX620. The Kia was driven by a 69-year-old St. Peters woman, while the semi-truck was driven by a 65-year-old Jefferson City man, the report says. The Kansas City man had serious injuries and was brought to University Hospital by ambulance, the report says. Both vehicles had minor damage, while both drivers wore seatbelts and had no reported injuries, the report says. When a pedestrian is struck by a vehicle, the injuries can be severe and life-altering. Common injuries include broken bones, head and traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, internal organ injuries, severe lacerations, and road rash, many of which require extensive medical treatment and long-term rehabilitation. Even low-speed impacts can leave a pedestrian with chronic pain, mobility issues, or permanent disabilities that affect their ability to work and live independently. If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, don’t try to handle the aftermath alone— call Daniel Finder at Finder Law, LLC to discuss your rights and get experienced personal injury representation. All facts of the incident are based on preliminary reporting done by The Missouri State Highway Patrol and KMIZ.

How DWI and Similar Convictions Can Affect Child Custody in Missouri

By Kara McNabb • January 8, 2026
In Missouri, child custody and parenting time arrangements are determined based on the best interests of the child. Courts consider a variety of factors, including the ability of each parent to provide a safe and stable environment. Convictions such as DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) or other serious offenses can significantly impact custody decisions and modifications. Understanding how these convictions influence child custody in Missouri can help parents protect their rights while ensuring their child’s safety.

Abuse Allegations During a Divorce in Missouri: What You Need to Know

By Kara McNabb • January 6, 2026
Divorce is often an emotionally charged process, and allegations of abuse can make it even more complex and high-stakes. In Missouri, claims of physical, emotional, or domestic abuse during a divorce can significantly affect issues such as child custody, visitation, protective orders, and even the overall strategy and timeline of the case.  If abuse allegations arise during a Missouri divorce proceeding, it is critical to understand how the courts handle these claims and why experienced legal guidance is so important.

Traffic Ticket FAQs in Missouri: What You Need to Know

By Kara McNabb • December 23, 2025
Receiving a traffic ticket in Missouri can be stressful, and many drivers have questions about fines, points, and potential consequences. Understanding the basics can help you make informed decisions and possibly reduce penalties. At Finder Law, LLC , attorney Daniel Finder assists clients in navigating traffic violations and protecting their driving records.

How Drug Use or Allegations Affect Custody and Visitation in Missouri Family Law Cases

By Kara McNabb • December 18, 2025
When parents face divorce or custody disputes in Missouri, one of the most critical issues is determining who will have custody of children and how visitation will be arranged. Allegations of drug use—whether proven or unproven—can significantly impact these decisions. Missouri family courts prioritize the best interests of the child, and a parent’s substance use can influence both custody and visitation rights.

Brain Damage & Traumatic Brain Injuries After Car Crashes: Missouri Personal Injury Claims

By Kara McNabb • December 9, 2025
Car accidents can cause serious, life-altering injuries, and among the most devastating are brain injuries. Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) can result in permanent cognitive, emotional, and physical impairments. If you or a loved one has suffered a brain injury in a car crash in Missouri, understanding your legal options is crucial. At Finder Law, LLC, attorney Daniel Finder helps victims pursue the compensation they deserve.

What to Expect at a Workers’ Compensation Claim Hearing in Missouri

By Kara McNabb • December 4, 2025
If you’ve been injured at work in Missouri, filing a workers’ compensation claim can help cover medical expenses and lost wages. However, some claims require a formal hearing before the Missouri Division of Workers’ Compensation. Understanding what to expect can make the process less stressful and help protect your rights. At Finder Law, LLC , attorney Daniel Finder assists injured workers throughout every stage of the workers’ compensation process, including hearings.