For a couple in the middle of an alimony dispute, heightened publicity can only make the situation more frustrating. Given the emotions that can surface during the divorce process, trying to reach an agreement regarding alimony, also known as spousal support can cause tension between the two people.

When a court orders a certain amount in alimony payment, there are a lot of factors that are taken into consideration. These factors can include income, education, whether one parent stayed at home to raise children, and whether one spouse will be paying child support. But if the spouse ordered to pay alimony feels like the amount is unfair, does he or she have any redress?

A spouse ordered to pay alimony can appeal the award. For example, an on-air television news anchor recently challenged the amount of alimony a district court has granted to his ex-wife in their divorce settlement. The anchor believes that the monthly amount is too high.

The television anchor makes a six-figure income each year as a TV and radio personality. However his ex-wife only makes several thousand each year working part-time as a fitness instructor. But she remained at home and home-schooled their children while he worked. She does have a degree as an educator but left that profession to stay at home after she had the first child.

The news anchor is arguing that the alimony amount should be reduced because his ex-wife could return to full time teaching which would increase her yearly income. He is appealing because the district cannot consider this unless it can be shown that she is deliberately staying unemployed to get alimony.

If the ex-wife does find employment, there is the option of getting the alimony award reduced to reflect her new income status.

Source: Pioneer Press: "Fox 9 anchor Passolt in alimony dispute," Emily Gurnon, Aug. 22, 2011