Alimony seems like a simpler arrangement than having a former spouse retain an ownership interest in a family business that he or she was instrumental in building – especially if feelings are such that it’s impossible to run the business together anymore.
Paying simply to support a former spouse in “the manner to which she has become accustomed” is absurd, and should no longer have a place in the law – especially where the presumed recipient initiates a no-fault divorce.
But there are certain circumstances where it does make sense. For example, to assist with educational expenses to allow a long-time homemaker to enter the work force again. We should put value on a homemaker’s contribution to the marriage and compensate that somehow, over and above child support.
