Georgia Spousal Support Lawyers

In most divorce proceedings, the issue of alimony (otherwise known as spousal maintenance or spousal support) will come into play. In general, alimony is financial support paid by one spouse to other in the wake of a divorce.

In the state of Georgia, there are no specific guidelines for determining alimony eligibility and no formula for calculating an exact alimony amount. Rather, alimony payment requests are granted or denied at the sole discretion of a judge or jury. This is precisely why your selection of an experienced attorney to protect your best interests is so important in alimony matters.

Powerful Representation of Your Interests

The lawyers at Hill/Macdonald, LLC have significant experience both fighting for and defending against alimony claims. Attorneys Vic Brown Hill and Brad E. Macdonald have earned a solid reputation as unwavering divorce attorneys who prepare fully for trial from day one. Contact our firm to schedule an initial divorce consultation.

Factors Influencing Alimony Awards

Georgia has gotten away from granting alimony payments as a matter of course. In many cases, judges lean toward awarding rehabilitative alimony - financial support paid until the receiving spouse either becomes gainfully employed or obtains an education. In certain circumstances, lifetime alimony may be awarded by the court to those who are unable to provide for themselves or ending a lengthy marriage.

Alimony is not considered a form of punishment. It is awarded based on the needs of the requesting party, the ability of the other party to pay and the consideration of other factors, including:

• Health concerns
• Education levels
• Income of each party
• Length of the marriage
• Age of each spouse
• Standard of living during marriage

Alimony Classifications

There are several kinds of alimony that may be awarded. Periodic alimony payments are what typically come to mind when you hear the term "spousal support." Under this type of order, payments are made on a regular schedule subject to limitations by the court. Lump-sum alimony, on the other hand, involves a spouse receiving a fixed amount, which may be paid as one payment or a series of installments. In-kind alimony involves one spouse receiving a piece of property or services as an alimony award.

Alimony Claims Involving Separate Estates

In Georgia, a person's separate estate is not subject to equitable distribution. However, assets acquired prior to the marriage or gifted / inherited during the marriage may be subject to alimony claims.

If you believe that the amount of alimony awarded by the judge or jury was somehow improper, we may be able to pursue an appeal.