Alimony and Spousal Support in Georgia
How Georgia decides spousal support (alimony), the factors courts weigh, and how marital property is divided.
Short answer: Alimony may be temporary or permanent. A spouse cannot receive alimony if the separation was caused by that spouse's adultery or desertion. Otherwise, alimony is based on one spouse's need and the other's ability to pay. O.C.G.A. §§ 19-6-1, 19-6-5
| Alimony (spousal support) | Alimony may be temporary or permanent. A spouse cannot receive alimony if the separation was caused by that spouse's adultery or desertion. Otherwise, alimony is based on one spouse's need and the other's ability to pay. Factors include the standard of living during the marriage, length of the marriage, age and health, each spouse's finances, time needed for education or training, contributions to the marriage (including homemaking and child-rearing), and separate property and earning ability. There is no duration formula. Permanent alimony ends when the recipient remarries, unless otherwise provided. Unofficial mirror (FindLaw), current as of March 28, 2024. Source: O.C.G.A. §§ 19-6-1, 19-6-5 |
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FAQ
How is alimony decided in Georgia?
Alimony may be temporary or permanent. A spouse cannot receive alimony if the separation was caused by that spouse's adultery or desertion. Otherwise, alimony is based on one spouse's need and the other's ability to pay. Factors include the standard of living during the marriage, length of the marriage, age and health, each spouse's finances, time needed for education or training, contributions to the marriage (including homemaking and child-rearing), and separate property and earning ability. There is no duration formula. Permanent alimony ends when the recipient remarries, unless otherwise provided.
General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.