Permanent alimony is paid indefinitely, usually in long marriages where the receiving spouse did not develop work skills during the marriage. (info.legalzoom.com)
When deciding on the appropriate split, the court evaluates several factors, including how long the marriage lasted, spouse age, health and income, and whether alimony has been awarded. (info.legalzoom.com)
This is especially true for long marriages where things have settled into a routine. (marriage.com)