Alimony & Spousal Support
Expert guidance on alimony determination and modifications
Understanding Alimony in Georgia
Alimony is granted to provide for the needs of a spouse after the dissolution of marriage. Alimony may be awarded to either spouse with a few exceptions. It can be paid in either a lump sum or over a period of time.
The distribution of alimony in each case varies greatly, depending on the details of the case. The Stewart Law Office will help you either defend an alimony claim or acquire alimony to help you in the future.
Factors That Influence Alimony Awards
There are numerous factors that influence the distribution of alimony in Georgia. The court considers all relevant circumstances when determining whether to award alimony and in what amount.
Personal Circumstances
- Physical condition of each spouse
- Emotional condition and mental health
- Age of both parties
- Employment status and employability
- Education level and job skills
- Time needed to acquire education or training
Disqualifying Factors
- Adultery by the requesting spouse
- Desertion of the marriage
- Criminal misconduct
- Substance abuse affecting the marriage
- Domestic violence
- Other marital misconduct
Types of Alimony in Georgia
Temporary Alimony
Also known as "pendente lite" support, this is awarded during the divorce proceedings to help maintain the status quo until the divorce is finalized.
- Awarded during divorce proceedings
- Ends when divorce is finalized
- Based on immediate financial needs
- Can include attorney fees
Rehabilitative Alimony
Temporary support designed to help a spouse become self-supporting through education, training, or work experience.
- Limited duration
- Specific rehabilitation plan required
- Designed to achieve self-sufficiency
- May include education or training costs
Need Help with Alimony Matters?
Whether you're seeking alimony or defending against an alimony claim, Stewart Family Law can help guide you through the complex legal process. Contact us for experienced representation.
When Alimony Terminates
Georgia law provides specific circumstances under which alimony automatically terminates.
Automatic Termination Events:
- Remarriage of the receiving spouse
- Death of either party
- Cohabitation with a member of the opposite sex
- Expiration of the agreed-upon time period
- Achievement of self-sufficiency (rehabilitative alimony)
Strategic Considerations for Alimony Cases
If You Are Seeking Alimony
- Document your financial contributions to the marriage
- Gather evidence of your spouse's income and assets
- Calculate your reasonable financial needs
- Consider the tax implications of different payment structures
- Develop a realistic plan for achieving self-sufficiency
- Maintain detailed records of expenses and lifestyle
If You Are Defending Against Alimony
- Challenge unreasonable financial claims
- Document your spouse's earning capacity
- Present evidence of marital misconduct (if applicable)
- Argue for limited duration rather than permanent support
- Consider offering lump sum payment to avoid ongoing obligations
- Plan for future modification possibilities