If you are currently going through the divorce process, there is a very good chance that alimony will be a central topic in your divorce agreement, and a Monroe, Louisiana alimony lawyer here at Breithaupt, DuBos & Wolleson is here to help ensure your best interests are protected. Contact our firm today to learn more about alimony in Louisiana and how we can assist you through every step of the legal process ahead.
Do I Need a Monroe, Louisiana Alimony Lawyer?
An alimony agreement has the potential to significantly affect both spouses financially for years down the road, so it is critical that you do not proceed without the services of a knowledgeable Monroe, Louisiana divorce lawyer who has significant experience handling alimony-related issues.
Factors Considered When Determining Alimony in Louisiana
In Louisiana, courts will consider a wide array of factors when determining alimony structures. In most cases, permanent alimony is out of the question, though there are some rare instances where it may be awarded. Typically, courts will award a financially dependent spouse periodic post-divorce support, wherein the financially independent spouse will make regular support payments for a predetermined period of time, wherein the supported spouse will work to become financially independent.
That said, courts in Louisiana will primarily consider the duration of the marriage, as well as each spouse’s financial situation. Some of the additional factors courts will consider are as follows:
- Both spouses’ age
- Both spouses’ health
- The standard of living established in the marriage
- Tax consequences to either spouse
- Both spouses’ earning capacity
- Both spouses’ financial obligations
- Both spouses’ monetary and non-monetary contributions to the marriage
You should also know that, unlike many other states, Louisiana will also strongly consider whether adultery was the reason cited for the divorce. In Louisiana, if a spouse can prove that they are seeking a divorce because their spouse committed adultery, there is a very good chance that the adulterous spouse will no longer be eligible to receive alimony. Additionally, courts in Louisiana will also likely grant support orders in cases where the spouse seeking support is a victim of domestic abuse, irrespective of other factors.
Modifying Alimony Agreements in Louisiana
After a divorce is finalized and months or years go by, it is not uncommon for circumstances to change. For example, if the party who receives alimony gets a higher paying job, remarries, cohabits with another person, or otherwise comes into a significant amount of money, the supporting spouse may request a decrease or termination of alimony.
On the other hand, if the spouse receiving alimony was demoted, developed a serious medical condition that requires costly medical care, or otherwise now has fewer financial assets due to unforeseen circumstances, he or she may request an increase or an extension on alimony. Our firm can analyze your case and determine whether you have valid grounds to request a post-judgment modification.
Contact a Louisiana Alimony Lawyer
For many divorcing spouses, alimony is a critical issue, which is why it is so important that you turn to a knowledgeable Monroe, Louisiana alimony lawyer who truly cares about your best interests. Contact Breithaupt, DuBos & Wolleson today to schedule your initial consultation with our firm.
