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Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney At Law Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney At Law
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Spousal Support

Shreveport Spousal Support Attorney

Achieving a Fair Alimony Agreement for Both Parties

Spousal support, also known as alimony, is a court-ordered payment that one spouse makes to the other after a divorce. The purpose of spousal support is to help the receiving spouse maintain the same standard of living that they experienced during the marriage. The court will consider a variety of factors when determining whether to award spousal support and, if so, how much and for how long.

At Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney at Law, we understand how crucial spousal support is to your financial future. Our Shreveport spousal support lawyer can help you understand your rights and options and work to protect your interests throughout the legal process.

Call (318) 633-0186 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our spousal support attorneys in Shreveport.

What is Alimony?

Alimony, or spousal support, is a court-ordered financial payment from one spouse to another during or after a divorce. The purpose of alimony is to minimize the economic impact of a separation by providing ongoing income to a spouse who may be financially disadvantaged or unable to fully support themselves immediately after divorce.

In Louisiana, spousal support falls into two main categories:

  • Interim Spousal Support – Temporary support provided while the divorce is pending.
  • Final Spousal Support – Longer-term financial assistance awarded after the divorce is finalized.

Alimony is not automatic and must be requested. Courts consider a variety of factors before deciding whether to award support and how much should be paid.

It's important to note that Louisiana law also allows for lump-sum support or rehabilitative support in some cases, particularly when one spouse needs time and resources to gain employment or complete education or training.

How to Determine Alimony

Unlike child support, which has a strict formula, spousal support in Louisiana is determined based on a range of factors. A judge will look at the overall financial situation and specific details of each spouse's needs and abilities.

Some of the factors the court will consider include:

  • The length of the marriage
  • The age and health of each spouse
  • The earning capacity of each spouse
  • The financial needs of each spouse
  • The standard of living during the marriage
  • The education and training of each spouse
  • The contributions of each spouse to the marriage
  • The tax consequences of spousal support
  • Whether one spouse committed adultery

To qualify for final spousal support, the receiving spouse must be free from fault in the breakup of the marriage. This aspect of Louisiana spousal support law makes legal representation even more important, as proving or defending against allegations of fault can be complex.

At Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney at Law, we will work diligently to build a strong case on your behalf—whether you're seeking support or challenging a request for it.

Spousal Support FAQs

Who qualifies for spousal support in Louisiana?

To qualify for support, a spouse must demonstrate a financial need and show that they are not primarily at fault for the breakdown of the marriage. Fault could include adultery, abuse, or abandonment.

How long does spousal support last?

The duration of alimony depends on the circumstances. Interim support typically ends when the divorce is finalized, while final support may last for several years or until the receiving spouse becomes financially independent. It can also end upon remarriage, cohabitation, or death.

Can spousal support be modified or terminated?

Yes. Final spousal support can be modified or terminated if either spouse experiences a significant change in circumstances, such as loss of income, job change, or remarriage.

Is spousal support taxable in Louisiana?

For divorces finalized after January 1, 2019, spousal support payments are no longer taxable to the recipient or tax-deductible by the payer for federal tax purposes, though state tax treatment may vary.

What happens if my ex-spouse stops paying alimony?

If your former spouse fails to make court-ordered spousal support payments, you can file a motion for enforcement with the court. This may result in wage garnishment, contempt charges, or other penalties.

Contact Our Shreveport Spousal Support Lawyers for Guidance

At Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney at Law, we are committed to providing our clients with the compassionate and effective legal representation they deserve. Our spousal support lawyers in Shreveport can help you navigate the legal process and work to protect your interests. We serve clients across Northwest Louisiana, including those in Shreveport, Bossier City, and Bossier Parish.

Call (318) 633-0186 or contact us online to schedule a consultation.

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