Opinion ID: 1832878
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Heading: Legal Framework for Property and Alimony Issues.

Text: In dissolution-of-marriage cases, marital property is to be divided equitably, considering the factors outlined in Iowa Code section 598.21(1). Equitable distribution depends upon the circumstances of each case. In re Marriage of Schriner, 695 N.W.2d 493, 496 (Iowa 2005). An equitable division is not necessarily an equal division. In re Marriage of Anliker, 694 N.W.2d 535, 542 (Iowa 2005). Alimony may also be awarded to a spouse in addition to the distribution of property. Alimony `is a stipend to a spouse in lieu of the other spouse's legal obligation for support.' In re Marriage of Probasco, 676 N.W.2d 179, 184 (Iowa 2004) ( quoting In re Marriage of Francis, 442 N.W.2d 59, 62 (Iowa 1989)). Whether alimony is awarded depends on the particular circumstances of each case. In re Marriage of Spiegel, 553 N.W.2d 309, 319 (Iowa 1996). Factors to be considered in awarding alimony are set forth in Iowa Code section 598.21A(1).