exspouse

An ex-spouse is a person who is no longer married to someone who was previously their spouse. The term is gender-neutral and denotes a change in marital status due to divorce, dissolution of marriage, or annulment. Ex-spouses may still have legal obligations or rights, such as those related to children or shared property, even though they are not the current spouse.

Legal implications vary by jurisdiction but commonly include the division of assets and debts, alimony or spousal support, and decisions about child custody and visitation, along with child support. Some benefits—such as health insurance coverage or survivor benefits—may continue for a limited time or terminate under court orders. Remarriage of either party typically alters or ends certain duties toward the former spouse; however, duties related to children generally remain until they reach adulthood or are otherwise arranged.

Social and practical considerations also evolve after divorce. People may change names, living arrangements, and financial plans. Ex-spouses may maintain cooperative co-parenting relationships or minimize contact, depending on personal circumstances and legal restrictions. Attitudes toward ex-spouses vary widely across cultures and personal beliefs.