Marietta Spousal Support & Alimony Lawyer
Alimony can be one of the most contested parts of a divorce. Whether you'd pay or receive support, we make the case for a fair, sustainable outcome.
How alimony works in Georgia
Alimony in Georgia isn't automatic — the spouse seeking it must show financial need and the other's ability to pay. Courts weigh the factors in O.C.G.A. § 19-6-5: the length of the marriage, the standard of living, each spouse's resources and earning capacity, and contributions to the marriage, including homemaking and supporting the other's career.
The four types of alimony
Georgia recognizes temporary alimony (while the divorce is pending), periodic alimony (for a set time, often to allow education or retraining), lump-sum alimony (a single payment), and permanent alimony (most common after a long marriage or for a homemaker spouse, ending on remarriage or death).
How fault can bar alimony
Conduct matters in Georgia: a spouse can lose the right to alimony entirely if their adultery or desertion caused the separation. We make sure the facts that matter — on either side — are properly before the court.
Modifying or enforcing alimony
A modification generally can't be sought within two years of the last order (O.C.G.A. § 19-6-19), and may be based on a substantial change in finances or the recipient's cohabitation with a new romantic partner. When payments stop, we enforce through contempt, wage garnishment, and liens.
Questions & answers
Spousal Support & Alimony: common questions
How is alimony determined in Georgia?
There's no fixed formula. Under O.C.G.A. § 19-6-5, courts weigh each spouse's needs and resources, the marriage's length and standard of living, contributions to the marriage, and conduct.
What are the types of alimony in Georgia?
Temporary (during the case), periodic (for a set period), lump-sum (a one-time payment), and permanent (most common after long marriages, ending on remarriage or death).
Can adultery affect alimony in Georgia?
Yes. A spouse whose adultery or desertion caused the separation can lose the right to receive alimony altogether.
Can I change my alimony order in Georgia?
Usually not within two years of the last order. After that, a substantial change in finances — or the recipient living with a new partner — can be grounds to modify.
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