In Pennsylvania, financial support may be ordered by the court to be paid by one spouse to the other following a separation or during and after a legal dissolution of marriage. This support, termed spousal support, pendente lite support, or post-divorce spousal support, aims to address economic imbalances that may arise due to the marital relationship. For example, if one spouse sacrificed career opportunities to raise children, the court might order the other spouse to provide financial assistance to allow the dependent spouse to become self-sufficient. This support is not automatically granted and depends on various factors.
The provision of financial assistance following marital dissolution is crucial for ensuring a degree of economic stability for individuals who may have become financially dependent during the marriage. Historically, it reflected societal expectations regarding gender roles within marriage. Its modern application seeks to mitigate economic hardship and promote fairness, allowing individuals to rebuild their lives after separation. This aspect of divorce proceedings directly impacts the financial well-being of those involved, influencing their future living standards and access to resources.