Family Law

Alimony Modification

Unless both parties to the divorce can agree, alimony is often the most difficult issue to address in a divorce action. Generally speaking, alimony is awarded based on the needs of the party requesting alimony, and the ability of the other party to pay. What the requesting party "needs" is often influenced by the lifestyle that he or she has grown accustomed to during the time the parties were married. While it is possible to request the Court to modify alimony payments later, it is more important to make sure that you are getting a fair deal in the first place. If you will possibly be party to an alimony award, you need the assistance of knowledgeable legal counsel every step of the way. Even if you are already a party to an alimony award, you may still need to consult with a family law attorney to determine whether your situation can be improved. Contact the experienced family law team at Meriwether & Tharp to discuss your needs.

In order for one party to modify an alimony award, there must be a substantial change in circumstances. This could range from substantial increase in income, involuntary job loss, or the cohabitation of your ex-spouse with another person. Georgia does have what is called a "live-in lover" statute that allows one to move for modification where a party receiving alimony has moved in with a person and is living in a meretricious relationship, but is avoiding getting married in order to continue receiving alimony payments. Every case is different and legal opinions can vary widely depending upon the specific facts of your case and depending upon the county in which your ex-spouse lives and the judge who may be assigned to your case.

For assistance with alimony issues, please call our office at (678) 879-9000 or e-mail us at familylaw@mtlawoffice.com to schedule an appointment to meet with someone on our family law team. Consultations are charged at our normal hourly rate.

Georgia Attorneys providing legal services in the areas of Business Transactions, Business Litigation, and Family Law, from divorce to child support, in the Atlanta metro area including, but not limited to Alpharetta, Buford, Canton, Cumming, Decatur, Roswell, Kennesaw, Lawrenceville, Norcross, Sandy Springs, Marietta, Duluth, Dunwoody, Woodstock, Milton, and Johns Creek.