Olson v. Olson

The petitioner, Stephen Olson, petitioned the trial court to terminate his monthly payments to his ex-wife, Norma Jean Olson. The trial court characterized these payments as either a lump sum property settlement payable by installments or as alimony in gross and, therefore, not modifiable. Mr. Olson appeals, contending these payments are periodic maintenance payments and subject to modification by the court.

In January 1980, the parties received a dissolution of marriage. Under a settlement agreement, Mrs. Olson received custody of their sole minor child. Concerning property and maintenance,…