Bill > S1236

This bill aims to protect survivors of spousal abuse by modifying alimony laws to prevent abusive spouses from receiving financial support from their victims. The legislation defines "abuse" broadly, including physical harm, causing fear of serious physical harm, and forcing involuntary sexual relations. Under the proposed law, if a spouse is convicted of abuse, courts are mandated to deny, terminate, or decline alimony in various types of alimony arrangements (including general term, rehabilitative, reimbursement, and transitional alimony). The bill also allows a spouse who has previously paid alimony to an abusive partner to petition the court to terminate those payments. Additionally, the legislation removes previous language that limited the admissibility of ex parte orders in determining abuse, potentially making it easier for survivors to prove patterns of abusive behavior. The bill does not restrict the parties' rights to a hearing or the court's discretion in domestic relations procedures, and it will take effect immediately upon passage. By creating clear legal mechanisms to prevent abusive spouses from financially benefiting from their victims, the bill seeks to provide greater protection and justice for survivors of domestic abuse.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1236