If you’ve been out of the workforce raising children or supporting your spouse’s career, divorce may feel like stepping off a cliff with no safety net. But in Georgia, spousal support—or alimony—can help bridge that gap.
While every divorce is unique, understanding how Georgia courts approach spousal support can help you prepare for what lies ahead. Below are a few real-life-style examples that show how stay-at-home spouses may qualify for alimony and what that support might look like in different situations.
1. Maria: The Full-Time Parent Rebuilding Her Career
Maria spent 12 years at home raising her two children while her husband built a successful real estate business in Alpharetta. Before having children, Maria worked in marketing, but her resume hasn’t been updated in over a decade. Now that the marriage is ending, Maria is concerned about her ability to support herself and her children while she looks for work.
In her case, the court awarded rehabilitative alimony—monthly payments for five years—to help her update her skills, complete a certification program, and find stable employment. Because of her long absence from the workforce and her substantial contribution to raising the children, the court recognized the need for time and financial support to help Maria regain independence.
2. Kevin: The At-Home Dad Who Put His Career on Hold
Kevin left a career in finance to be the primary caregiver for his and his husband’s daughter. They lived in Johns Creek, where Kevin managed the household while his spouse traveled frequently for work. After ten years, the couple decided to divorce.
Kevin requested spousal support due to his full-time caregiving role and limited recent work experience. The court awarded temporary alimony to provide income during the divorce process, as well as a shorter-term rehabilitative plan to allow Kevin time to find employment that fits his family’s needs.
The court also factored in the significant income disparity between the spouses and Kevin’s ongoing role as a primary parent.
3. Lisa: The Long-Term Spouse with Health Concerns
Lisa and her husband were married for 20 years. She stayed home with their children, cared for aging relatives, and managed the household while her husband climbed the corporate ladder in North Fulton County. Lisa has recently been diagnosed with a chronic health condition that limits her ability to work full-time.
Given the length of the marriage and her limited earning potential due to health concerns, Lisa was awarded permanent alimony. The court determined that financial support was necessary to maintain a standard of living somewhat comparable to what she experienced during the marriage and to address her medical needs.
Understanding What the Court Considers
In each of these examples, Georgia courts evaluated key factors such as:
- The length of the marriage
- One spouse’s financial dependence on the other
- The earning potential and education of both parties
- Contributions to the home and family
- Health and future employment capacity
Spousal support isn’t about “winning” or “punishment.” It’s about recognizing the real-life sacrifices made in a marriage and ensuring that both spouses have a fair chance to move forward.
Wondering if You Qualify for Spousal Support in Georgia?
At Barnhart Family Law, we take the time to understand your story. Whether you’ve been a stay-at-home parent, are facing health issues, or simply need time to get back on your feet, we’re here to help you navigate your options and fight for a fair financial future.