Support & Alimony

Retroactive Support

Child or spousal support ordered to cover a period before the support order was officially entered.

Understanding Retroactive Support

Courts may award retroactive support dating back to the date the petition was filed or even earlier in some jurisdictions. This compensates the custodial parent for expenses incurred while waiting for the court to establish a formal support order. The paying spouse may owe a lump sum for the retroactive period in addition to ongoing monthly payments. Courts consider each party's financial circumstances when calculating retroactive amounts.

Real-World Examples

The judge ordered six months of retroactive child support covering the period between filing and the first hearing.

Related Terms

Pendente Lite Support

Temporary spousal or child support awarded while the divorce case is pending, from a Latin term meaning 'during the litigation.'

Spousal Support

Court-ordered payments from one spouse to another after divorce to help maintain a reasonable standard of living. Also called alimony.

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This definition is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Divorce laws and terminology may vary by state and jurisdiction.

Always consult a licensed attorney in your area for advice specific to your situation.