Bossier City Spousal Support Attorney
Got Alimony Issues? Our Firm Can Help!
Going through a divorce can be emotionally and financially overwhelming. For many couples, one of the most difficult issues to resolve is spousal support, commonly known as alimony. Whether you are seeking spousal support or being asked to pay, having our Bossier City spousal support lawyer on your side can make a significant difference in protecting your rights and ensuring a fair outcome. At Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney At Law, we provide compassionate yet aggressive legal representation for clients navigating the complex process of divorce and spousal support in Louisiana.
Call (318) 633-0186 today to schedule a consultation.
What is Alimony?
Alimony, legally referred to as spousal support in Louisiana, is financial assistance paid by one spouse to the other during or after a divorce. The goal of alimony is to reduce unfair financial hardship caused by the divorce, especially when one spouse has been financially dependent on the other during the marriage.
Louisiana law recognizes that every marriage is unique, and so is every spousal support case. Support may be temporary—designed to help a spouse adjust during the divorce—or longer-term, if one spouse cannot reasonably support themselves after the marriage ends.
Alimony is not guaranteed in every divorce. Courts carefully evaluate multiple factors before deciding whether to award it, how much should be paid, and for how long.
Common Types of Spousal Support in Louisiana
Louisiana law provides for different forms of spousal support. Our knowledgeable Bossier City spousal support attorney can help you understand which type may apply in your case.
Interim Spousal Support
This type of support is temporary and is meant to help the financially dependent spouse maintain the standard of living they had during the marriage while the divorce is pending. Interim support usually ends when the divorce is finalized, but in some cases, it can continue for a short period afterward.
Final Periodic Spousal Support
After the divorce, a spouse may request final periodic support. This type of support is typically awarded when one spouse cannot reasonably meet their financial needs on their own. Louisiana courts often limit this support to what is necessary for basic living expenses and require proof that the requesting spouse is free from marital fault.
Lump-Sum Spousal Support
Instead of ongoing payments, spousal support may be awarded in one lump-sum payment. This option is less common but can be useful in cases where both parties prefer to settle financial matters quickly and permanently.
How to Determine Alimony
Louisiana courts consider several factors when deciding whether to award spousal support and in what amount. Our Bossier City alimony lawyer can help you present your financial situation and advocate for a fair decision.
Key factors include:
- Financial need of the requesting spouse
- Ability to pay of the other spouse
- Length of the marriage
- Standard of living during the marriage
- Contributions of each spouse to the marriage (including homemaking and child-rearing)
- Age and health of each spouse
- Earning capacity and education of each spouse
In Louisiana, spousal support may be denied if the requesting spouse is found to be at fault for the breakup of the marriage, such as through adultery or abuse.
Because these cases are so fact-specific, outcomes can vary greatly. Having legal representation ensures your interests are fully considered.
Spousal Support FAQs
How long does spousal support last in Louisiana?
It depends on the type of support. Interim spousal support typically lasts until the divorce is finalized, while final periodic support may last for a limited period based on the recipient’s needs and the paying spouse’s ability. Courts aim to encourage financial independence over time.
Can spousal support be modified?
Yes. If circumstances change—such as a job loss, disability, or significant increase in income—either spouse may request a modification or termination of support.
Is spousal support taxable?
Under current federal law, spousal support payments are no longer deductible by the payer or taxable to the recipient for divorces finalized after January 1, 2019. However, state tax laws may differ, so it’s important to consult with a knowledgeable attorney.
What if my ex-spouse refuses to pay court-ordered support?
If your former spouse fails to comply with a court-ordered support agreement, you may take legal action to enforce the order. This can include wage garnishment or other court remedies.
Do I need a lawyer for spousal support issues?
Yes. Spousal support cases involve complex financial and legal issues that can significantly impact your future. Having our Bossier City spousal support lawyer ensures your case is handled correctly and that you receive or pay a fair amount.
Why Choose Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney At Law?
At Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney At Law, we understand the financial challenges that often accompany divorce. We are dedicated to protecting your rights, whether you are seeking support or being asked to pay. Our team provides:
- Skilled negotiation to pursue fair settlements
- Aggressive courtroom representation when litigation is necessary
- Compassionate guidance to help you make informed decisions
- Personalized strategies tailored to your financial circumstances
Contact a Bossier City Spousal Support Lawyer Today
If you are facing divorce and need help with alimony or spousal support, don’t navigate the process alone. The decisions made today can affect your financial stability for years to come.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get the strong legal advocacy you deserve.
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“Treats clients like family.”
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