Opinion ID: 1482159
Heading Depth: 3
Heading Rank: 1

Heading: Standard of Living

Text: [¶ 14] Ackerman contends that the Superior Court failed to consider the standard of living Ackerman enjoyed during the marriage when it determined the amount of spousal support to which Ackerman is entitled. Contrary to Ackerman's assertion, the court did consider the standard of living Ackerman enjoyed during the marriage. Additionally, although the parties' standard of living during the marriage is a factor in awarding spousal support, 19-A M.R.S.A. § 951-A(5)(N) (Supp. 2003), nothing in the statute requires that the parties must enjoy the exact same standard of living after the divorce as they did during the marriage. See Arey v. Arey, 651 A.2d 351, 354-55 (Me.1994) (upholding an award of $1 per year nominal support although there was evidence of a higher than average standard of living during the marriage). [¶ 15] Here, because the court thoroughly considered all of the factors listed in section 951-A(5), and there is evidence to support the court's conclusion that $135,000 a year in spousal support would be excessive, the Superior Court did not act beyond its discretion when it awarded Ackerman $6500 a month in spousal support.