When facing the end of a marriage, there is always concern about financial stability, particularly if one of the spouses is not producing a high income, and courts in Georgia have the ability to award spousal support.
Spousal support, also referred to as alimony, essentially requires one of the spouses to provide financial support to the other spouse for a period of time after the divorce.
If you are concerned about the spousal support process, then contact Marple Family Law today. We are experts at helping you prepare for a divorce and getting you the resources you need when it comes to spousal support in Atlanta.
Legal Basis for Spousal Support/
Alimony
In the past, when only one party was the primary breadwinner of a household, long-term spousal support was more common. Today, however, with many families having both spouses holding jobs or the ability of a previously non-working spouse to obtain employment in the future, the length of time for spousal support/alimony has generally decreased.
Georgia Court uses law O.C.G.A. §19-6-1, which provides that a court may award alimony in accordance with the needs of one party and the other’s ability to pay. The alimony may be temporary (while the case is pending), permanent (for a period of time after the divorce), or both.
It is important to note that the spouses can agree to the duration and amount of alimony outside of court as part of a private divorce settlement, but if they cannot reach an agreement, the judge or jury will decide the spousal support issues.
How Is Spousal Support Calculated?
There are many factors that go into calculating the duration and amount for spousal support.
Due to the many factors involved, it is critical to have a lawyer on your side who understands how spousal support works and can ensure that you receive a good result (either in settlement or from the court). Our experienced team at Marple Family Law would be happy to discuss your specific situation and how we can help you.
How Does Marple Family Law Help With Spousal Support?
Whether you want to request spousal support, or if your spouse is requesting it from you, it is important to have an experienced law firm on your side to help through the process.
Our experienced team at Marple Family Law would be happy to discuss your specific situation and how we can help you. Contact us today to get started.