Can I Get Alimony Before My Divorce is Final in Atlanta?

Alimony can be a vital lifeline for spouses going through divorce in Atlanta. Sometimes, this support is so crucial that spouses need it as soon as possible. If you’re going through the early stages of a divorce, you might baulk at the thought of waiting months or even years before your first alimony payment. But do you really have to wait until your divorce becomes final? Or can you start receiving alimony while your divorce is still underway?

How Temporary Alimony Works in Georgia

 In Georgia, spouses are allowed to pursue “temporary alimony” while their divorces are still in progress. This is also called “alimony pendente lite,” a Latin phrase that roughly translates to “alimony with litigation pending.” As this phrase suggests, this type of financial support is designed to help you pay your bills while you’re going through a divorce.

If you’re eligible to receive alimony after the divorce becomes final, you’re probably also eligible to receive temporary alimony during the entire legal process. However, this alimony is not “guaranteed.” You’ll need to show that you earn less than your ex, and that this income disparity existed during the marriage. You might also become ineligible for alimony if your marriage didn’t last very long. Income aside, your assets also affect your eligibility to receive alimony.

To establish your right to receive temporary alimony, you might need to attend a hearing. Your divorce lawyer can represent you during this hearing, arguing on your behalf that you deserve to receive financial support during the divorce.

 Why Temporary Alimony Is So Important 

Temporary alimony is important for several reasons. First, a lower-earning spouse might be hesitant to pursue divorce if he or she fears being “thrown out on the street” after the breakup. Access to temporary alimony dispels these fears, allowing spouses to end their marriages confidently. Temporary alimony ensures shelter, food, and other basic necessities for lower-earning spouses.

Temporary alimony may even allow spouses to leave abusive marriages. For example, an abused spouse might decide to leave the family home to reach safety. If they make this decision, they can rely on temporary alimony to pay their living costs. They can also remain in the family home and forcibly eject the abusive spouse with a protective order – while still receiving temporary support to pay the bills.

Should I Hire an Alimony Lawyer in Atlanta? 

While you may be entitled to temporary alimony before your divorce becomes final, fighting for your rights alone can be challenging. This is why many spouses choose to hire alimony attorneys in Atlanta. With help from a legal professional, it may be easier to secure the financial support you need during this uncertain time. Your lawyer can also help with many other aspects of divorce, such as child support and property division. Speak with Buckhead Family Law today to learn more.

Sources:

 georgia.gov/file-divorce

georgia.gov/get-protective-order