In Re the Marriage of Steven Michael Gust and Linda Leann Gust. Upon the Petition of Steven Michael Gust, Appellant…

Summary

The court affirmed an indefinite spousal-support award of $1,400 per month while child support continues and $2,000 per month thereafter. It held that the award was equitable because the marriage lasted nearly twenty-seven years, Linda had substantially lower earning capacity after years outside the workforce, and Steven had the ability to pay. The court further held that the potential effect of Steven's future retirement was too speculative to resolve in the initial decree and must be addressed in a later modification action when retirement is imminent or has occurred. Justice Wiggins, joined by Justices Waterman and Mansfield, concurred in part but would have terminated support when Steven reached age sixty-six or retired, whichever was later.