If you have been married to your spouse for a significant amount of time, and if your income is much higher than your spouse’s, you may be ordered to pay alimony. The amount of spousal support ordered and the length of time you might be ordered to pay it will be determined by the court. The court will consider several factors including, but not limited to: The ability of the spouse seeking alimony to be self-supporting financially The standard of living that the couple enjoyed while they were married The duration of the marriage