Decision 7108/2551 (2008): Alimony Continues Until Independence
The Court ruled that a financially dependent ex-wife was entitled to ongoing spousal maintenance even after the divorce decree. Citing section 1526 civil code, the justices stressed that the support obligation lasts until the recipient can reasonably support herself; it does not end automatically with the marriage.
Practical impact
- Spousal maintenance may extend well beyond the divorce date.
- The paying spouse bears the burden of proving the recipient’s improved means before seeking termination.
- Courts weigh income, health, and employability (not marital fault) when fixing duration.