Legal Question in Family Law in Massachusetts

A basic answer is that alimony is based on one spouses need and the other spouses ability to pay. Currently the general law is that a court cannot limit the duration of alimony, but there have been exceptions. There is legislation pending that would limit the duration of alimony in all cases. The following link is to information about the pending legislation. http://www.somervillelawoffice.com/legislation/massachusetts-2011-alimony-reform-act

Alimony, subject to a court's determination can be limited by agreement. Generally, Alimony will be impacted by the length of the marriage as well as the income of the two parties to the marriage as well as if there is a child support order.

Currently, guidelines recommended by the Bar Association does not provide for life time alimony for marriages of less than 20 years,

However, a judge can determine both the amount and limit of alimony. I would suggest you meet with an attorney and get some greater guidance.