In re the Dissolution of the Marriage of Kennedy

The husband appeals from a marriage dissolution decree which requires him to pay $200 per month permanent spousal support. During their 27-year marriage, the parties had enjoyed a high standard of living, making numerous trips abroad and exchanging expensive presents. At the time of dissolution the husband was 50 years old, the wife was 52, and both were in good health. All three of their children were emancipated.

Both of the parties hold college degrees and are gainfully employed. The wife is a tenured teacher, with an anticipated gross salary in 1975-76 of $11,520. In 1975 the husband’s…