What is the primary purpose of reimbursement spousal support?

Reimbursement spousal support is primarily aimed at compensating one spouse for the financial contributions they made towards the other spouse's acquisition of a professional degree or license. This type of support recognizes that one spouse might have invested time, effort, and financial resources into helping the other achieve educational or professional goals, which in turn can enhance the earning potential of the supported spouse.

For example, if one spouse worked while the other attended law school, and then the marriage ends after the degree is obtained, the contributing spouse may seek reimbursement spousal support to be compensated for the sacrifices made during the marriage that enabled the other spouse's career advancement. This form of support does not typically cover daily living expenses or education costs directly, nor does it aim to ensure equal contribution post-divorce; instead, it focuses on addressing specific financial contributions related to educational investments.