Georgia Alimony/Spousal Support

Spousal Support & Alimony

One of the most contentious issues of divorce is alimony. The crux of the matter usually revolves around a difference of opinion on what the other deserves. One spouse may have made more money or worked solely to support the family.  They may believe they shouldn’t have to pay because of their hard work during the marriage. The dependent spouse may believe they deserve more because they spent more time caring for the home and the children or they may have deferred their life goals in favor of the other’s success for the betterment of the family.

Generally speaking, a dependent party may be entitled to alimony to maintain the quality of life the couple established during the marriage. For how long and how much is up to the court, unless the couple can agree to terms outside of court. If alimony is an issue you need to resolve, it is important to consult with an attorney who has significant experience in this matter.

South Atlanta Family Law recognizes the impact alimony cases have on a person’s life. We will zealously represent you in and out of court to protect your rights and interests. Whether you are the potential payor or payee, we are ready to help. Please fill out our online form to schedule a consultation.

Spousal Support & Alimony During the Divorce

The State of Georgia believes that divorces should proceed without the fear of financial retribution to a dependent party. If someone wants a divorce, they should generally be able to maintain the status quo while marital issues are worked out in or out of court.

If you are in need of financial assistance from your spouse to maintain the marital bills during your divorce, then you can request temporary alimony/spousal support.  The Court does does not allow either spouse to be manipulated into staying married because one party holds the financial "cards" of the relationship.

Types of Alimony Structures Available in Georgia

Georgia recognizes the need for a party to be supported after a divorce for numerous reasons, including because they deferred goals in favor of the other’s success, financially supported the now-independent party as they pursued education or other means to success, cared for the home and children while the other worked, or just did not make as much money in their occupation. Whatever the case may be, the court will consider many options to determine whether the dependent party needs temporary or permanent alimony.

• Permanent Alimony: Permanent alimony is somewhat of a misunderstood form of alimony. It simply means there is no end date, and the payments should be uniform. This form of alimony is rare and usually is saved for those who have little to no prospects to becoming financially independent, including retirees or disabled persons. Though the term states it is "permanent," there are reasons why this can change, including remarriage, the ability to earn a sufficient income, or otherwise finding the dependent party financially sound.

• Temporary alimony: For most divorces, a form of temporary alimony will most likely be installed to help the dependent party become financially sound. Temporary alimony is ordered with a specific period of time and amount as the dependent party pursues education, job training, or other means of financial stability.

Factors That Can Impact a Divorce in Georgia

Alimony cases are fact-sensitive and each case is different. When litigated, the court will consider certain factors that pertain to the couple’s situation to determine an alimony obligation that is fair and just. This can include, but is not limited to:

• The duration of the marriage
• The standard of living established during the marriage
• The age and health of the parties
• The financial resources of the parties
• The needs of the dependent party to become financially sound
• The contribution of each party to the marriage
• Other relevant factors
  

Choose an Experienced Divorce Attorney

If you are involved in a divorce and need the help of an experienced attorney, contact South Atlanta Family Law Firm. Whether you are the one potentially paying alimony or entitled to it, it is important to have quality legal support through this matter.

For a consultation to discuss your legal matter, call (404) 494-0027, and we'll have yours scheduled within 24 hours.