Hammond Spousal Support Attorney
Brett K. Duncan & Co. helps individuals going through divorce understand complex issues, including spousal support. Founding attorney Brett Duncan has served clients in Hammond, Tangipahoa Parish and the surrounding areas of Louisiana since 2005. The process of calculating spousal support requires skilled legal guidance and accurate financial data.
Getting this right is a crucial issue that can affect your financial stability for years to come. Our firm is committed to turning legal uncertainty into clarity. Contact us to schedule a consultation by calling 800-725-6413 or filling out our online form.
How Spousal Support Works In Louisiana
Spousal support, sometimes called “support alimony,” helps a spouse maintain their standard of living during and after a divorce. Louisiana law recognizes two types of spousal support.
Interim spousal support is a temporary order intended to maintain the status quo while the divorce is pending. Final periodic spousal support may be awarded after the divorce is finalized if one spouse is in need and the other spouse was at fault for the marriage ending.
Key Factors Courts Consider
When determining spousal support, courts review a variety of factors to ensure a fair outcome. Judges consider many variables to help decide the amount and duration of a spousal support order, including:
- Each spouse’s income and earning capacity
- Financial obligations and debts
- Duration of the marriage
- Health, age and caregiving responsibilities
- Standard of living during the marriage
- Tax implications
- Misconduct relevant to the marriage breakdown
After considering these factors, a court will issue a spousal support order. While permanent alimony is rare, courts typically approve payments for as long as it takes the recipient to become self-sufficient.
Custody, Child Support And Spousal Support: How They Interact
Child support is calculated based on specific Louisiana Child Support Guidelines and is separate from spousal support. However, both support orders rely on credible income documentation. A fair spousal support order often depends on the accuracy of this financial information.
Child custody, including legal custody and physical custody, affects parenting time and may impact spousal support. We always prioritize the children’s best interests, focusing on stability and continuity in their schooling and care.
Mediation Vs. Litigation: A Practical, Balanced Approach
We take a realistic approach to family law cases. We prioritize fairness-focused negotiations to minimize conflict and protect children’s routines. Spousal support, child custody and child support issues can often be resolved amicably. Mediation works best when both parties can agree on a parenting schedule, have clear income documentation, and can divide assets and debts amicably.
Sometimes, court hearings may be necessary, especially in cases involving disputed income, alleged abuse, high-conflict visitation issues or fault allegations for final spousal support. We always prepare for court while continuing to seek an out-of-court resolution. Our firm knows when to negotiate and when to go to court.
Our strategic approach prioritizes mediation whenever possible and ensures thorough preparation for court when necessary. We pursue outcomes that reduce conflict while protecting what matters most. Our goal is to secure a fair spousal support order while protecting you and your family.
Frequently Asked Questions
We are here to answer your questions about spousal support. Here are some of the questions we hear most often.
How Long Do You Have To Be Married To Receive Alimony?
There is no specific time limit, but the duration of your marriage is a key factor courts consider when determining spousal support.
What Is Not Considered Alimony?
Child support is not considered spousal support or alimony. Reimbursement for community debt or property division payments is also not included as spousal support.
How Does Alimony Work?
Spousal support is a regular payment from one spouse to the other to ensure their financial security after a divorce. For spouses married less than 20 years, judges typically limit awards to no more than half of the length of the marriage.
Get A Fair Spousal Support Order
Understanding how alimony is calculated can be a challenging task. We can help you protect your rights and your financial future. We are committed to securing a fair spousal support order for you. Contact Brett K. Duncan & Co. online or call us at 800-725-6413 to schedule a consultation.