Understanding Spousal Support In Georgia
Alimony is often a significant consideration for many couples facing divorce in Georgia. It’s important to understand how spousal support works and what it might mean for you.
At The Law Firm of Christopher T. Adams, P.C., we can provide guidance on spousal support and all aspects of your divorce. Our family law firm has been serving clients in the Lawrenceville area since 1992. Our alimony attorney, Christopher Adams, brings over 30 years of experience to each case. He offers the advantage of in-depth local knowledge, as he is deeply familiar with courts and judges in the area. His goal is to empower clients to make informed decisions throughout the divorce process.
What Types Of Alimony Are There?
In Georgia, there are several types of alimony that a judge may consider:
- Temporary alimony: This support is provided during the divorce process. It helps the lower-earning spouse maintain financial stability until the divorce is finalized.
- Rehabilitative alimony: This type is awarded to support a spouse while they gain the skills or education needed to become self-sufficient. It’s usually for a set period and ends when the recipient becomes financially independent.
- Permanent alimony: Although less common, this may be awarded in long-term marriages where one spouse cannot become self-supporting. It continues indefinitely unless circumstances change (for example, the recipient remarries or receives a sizeable inheritance).
- Reimbursement alimony: This type compensates a spouse who supported the other through education or career advancement, expecting to share in the future benefits. It’s limited in duration and amount.
Understanding these types can help you prepare for what to expect in your case. Our lawyer can provide realistic guidance on which types of alimony might be appropriate.
When Is Alimony Awarded In Georgia Divorce Cases?
Alimony is not automatically granted in Georgia divorce cases. It is awarded based on specific circumstances. The judge considers several factors when deciding whether to award alimony, including:
- Duration of the marriage: Longer marriages are more likely to result in alimony awards.
- Standard of living: The lifestyle the parties established during the marriage is a highly relevant factor.
- Financial resources: The judge looks at both spouses’ income, assets and financial needs. The division of property and debts is also relevant to this consideration.
- Contributions to the marriage: Nonmonetary contributions, like homemaking, are also relevant to the alimony determination.
- Earning capacity: The judge will consider each spouse’s earning potential.
- Age and health: These factors will also impact the decision, as they are relevant to earning potential.
Of course, each case is unique, but these factors help the judge determine what is fair and appropriate and set alimony at an appropriate amount.
Our lawyer has a thorough understanding of alimony and how it gets awarded in Lawrenceville divorce cases. He can review your situation and advise you on whether you have a strong case for or against alimony.
Can Alimony Awards Be Modified?
In Georgia, alimony awards can be modified under certain circumstances. Not all types of alimony are eligible for modification, so it’s essential to understand the rules that apply to your specific situation.
Typically, permanent and rehabilitative alimony can be modified under the right circumstances. Temporary alimony generally cannot be modified, since it is meant to last only during the divorce process.
A modification is appropriate when circumstances significantly change. This could include a substantial change in either party’s income or financial status, such as job loss, remarriage or a significant pay increase. Additionally, changes in either spouse’s needs or health might warrant a modification. The legal standard requires showing a material change in circumstances since the original order.
When considering a modification request, the judge evaluates several factors. These include:
- Reason for the change: The court looks at why the change occurred and whether it was voluntary or beyond the party’s control.
- Duration since the original order: The time elapsed since the alimony was first awarded can impact the decision.
- Current financial status: The judge assesses the current financial situation of both parties.
- Future financial prospects: Potential future changes in financial status may also be considered.
If you need to seek or oppose an alimony modification, our attorney can guide you through the process, presented your case clearly and effectively.
Learn More About Alimony During A Free Consultation
If you have questions about spousal support or need assistance with an alimony case, we encourage you to reach out to us online or by phone at 770-676-1083. We offer free consultations to discuss your unique situation and explore your options. Our lawyer is here to help you understand your rights and work towards a resolution that addresses your financial needs.
