While there are plenty of disagreements regarding property division and child custody, some of the most hotly contested disputes in a Georgia divorce case center on alimony. Potential recipients have numerous arguments for seeking alimony, especially when their contributions during the marriage achieved a certain lifestyle to which they have become accustomed. From another point of view, parties who may have to pay alimony find it unfair that their financial obligation to an ex-spouse continues after the divorce case concludes.
Regardless of which side you occupy in an alimony dispute, it is critical to retain experienced legal counsel to advocate on your behalf. There is no right to support, so you must understand how your own interests factor into such determinations in a divorce case. Our team at Buckhead Family Law represents both payors and recipients to ensure fairness in the process, so please contact us to set up a consultation with a Forsyth County alimony lawyer. Some important background information may also be helpful.
Georgia’s alimony statute provides for two types of alimony in a divorce case. Rehabilitative support is temporary in nature, with the intent to help a lower earning spouse get the education, training, and skills necessary to become self-sufficient. Permanent or long-term alimony may be ordered by a judge when the financially disadvantaged spouse will likely not become employable due to age or disability.
In determining spousal support, the court will assess each spouse’s treatment of the other; as such, adultery may impact an award of alimony. Additional factors may include:
- The duration of the marriage;
- The age and fitness of each party;
- The financial resources of the spouses;
- The standard of living during the marriage; and,
- The contributions each party made to the marriage, family, and household.
At Buckhead Family Law, our approach to alimony topics starts by conducting an in-depth consultation to learn about your situation and goals. We can let you know where you stand with respect to spousal support, so you can make informed decisions. In some cases, it may be possible to reach an agreement on alimony through negotiations or mediation.
However, if disputes remain, our Forsyth County spousal support lawyers are prepared to take your case to court. We represent individuals seeking alimony, but we also advocate on behalf of spouses who may be required to pay it. Our services include:
- Gathering essential evidence regarding the factors a court reviews in making alimony decisions;
- Preparing necessary documentation to seek spousal support or respond to your spouse’s petition for alimony;
- Representing you in court at a hearing on alimony, including making arguments, introducing evidence, and presenting witness testimony.
While this summary of spousal support laws may be helpful, in-depth knowledge and experience is essential to protecting your financial interests in a divorce case. You can count on Buckhead Family Law for skilled, personalized representation, so please contact us at 404-390-0000 or go online to schedule a consultation with one of our Georgia alimony lawyers.