Accomplished. Agile. Accessible.
  1. Home
  2.  » 
  3. Family Law
  4.  » What factors are considered when awarding alimony in Georgia?

What factors are considered when awarding alimony in Georgia?

On Behalf of | May 23, 2022 | Family Law |

In a Georgia divorce, it is common for there to be disagreements about a litany of aspects of the case. Because finances are always a concern in any family law case, one spouse might want to receive support from the other. This could be for many reasons including having been a lesser earner or a homemaker during the marriage.

Regardless of the justification, it is useful to know what the court will consider when deciding how much alimony will be paid. This is true from the perspective of the spouse who will be paying and the one who will be receiving.

The court will assess the situation and make its decision based on these factors

During a marriage, the couple lived in a certain way. They established a standard of living. Perhaps there was a nice home, automobiles and other items. That standard of living must be maintained by the spouse who receives the alimony.

The length of the marriage is also assessed. A shorter marriage is unlikely to warrant the same amount in alimony as a longer marriage might. The condition of the parties will be important.

Financially, the sides will have certain resources. That will be a mitigating consideration with the alimony determination. In some cases, a person will need education or training to improve their station and support themselves.

This could take time and will be addressed with the alimony award. Contributions to the marriage in the context of earning income, caring for a family, helping the other with education and enhancing their ability to advance in their vocation are part of the alimony decision.

It is wise to remember that with permanent alimony, if the person who is receiving the payments remarries, it will be terminated.

For advice with alimony, having legal support help might be key

Family law cases can be complicated and alimony is often contentious. Even in cases where the sides are on relatively amicable terms, there can be disputes as to how much alimony will be paid.

When moving forward with a divorce, this aspect should not be ignored even if there are other issues like child custody and child support. To be fully protected from both perspectives, it is useful to consult with professionals who are aware of the ins and outs of alimony and family law.