Divorce can be both emotionally and financially taxing, particularly when it comes to matters of temporary maintenance and alimony. In Georgia, divorce courts follow specific guidelines and considerations when determining these financial responsibilities. This article highlights the essential factors that influence these decisions, backed by relevant case law.
To promote fairness, the court may require one spouse to provide financial support until the divorce is finalized. Couples have the opportunity to negotiate a plan for either short-term or permanent alimony that meets the needs of both parties.
Types of Alimony Available in Georgia
In Georgia, judges can award either temporary or permanent alimony (Ga. Code Ann. § 19-6-4 (2018)). Temporary alimony is appropriate when one spouse needs financial assistance during the divorce process. The length of divorce proceedings can range from a few months to over a year, depending on local rules and the specifics of each case. During this time, couples must adjust from a two-income household to relying on a single income.
For those who have relied on their spouse for full-time financial support, transitioning to separate living arrangements and shared financial responsibilities can be overwhelming. To ensure financial fairness, the court may order one spouse to support the other until the divorce concludes. However, receiving temporary support does not guarantee the award of alimony after the divorce.
The judge will assess whether permanent alimony is appropriate and, if so, will issue a new order that takes effect after the divorce is finalized. The judge will assess whether permanent alimony is appropriate and, if so, will issue a new order that takes effect after the divorce is finalized.
While the concept of permanent alimony may seem daunting, it is seldom granted for an unlimited period. More commonly, alimony is awarded to provide temporary financial support while spouses seek job training or education needed to achieve self-sufficiency.
