Permanent alimony is a long-term type of spousal support. It is typically assigned when the lower-earning spouse has a permanent disability or condition that may prevent them from earning or ever progressing to a higher earning level in their career.
Here’s an example of how this law could be applied:
Mrs. Jones became disabled after a car accident, making it impossible for her to continue working in her previous job as a physical therapist.  In this case, the court may order Mr. Jones to pay permanent alimony to Mrs. Jones, as her disability is likely to prevent her from earning a living independently. This form of alimony could continue permanently until the death of either party or until Mrs. Jones remarries.