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Last Modified on Nov 30, 2025
Ending a marriage is rarely an easy decision, and the divorce process can be challenging to navigate, especially if your divorce involves settling additional matters like ordering spousal support. The laws about spousal support can be confusing, and it may feel like you have no choice in the matter. But knowing your options can help you understand how to avoid paying spousal support in Louisiana when it isn’t warranted.
Louisiana Spousal Support Laws
Spousal support is money to be paid from one spouse to their lower-earning spouse after the couple separates. In some cases, this may be temporary, and in others, it may be long-term or even permanent. It is possible for spousal support orders to be modified or terminated if you believe circumstances have developed enough to warrant a legal change. Both parties must agree to the modification or decision to end the support payments.
Not all divorces warrant spousal support. The court assesses many factors in this decision, which can include:
- The need and ability of the higher-earning spouse to pay support
- Fault in the divorce, as Louisiana does recognize fault-based divorces
- Both spouses’ income, earning capacity, financial obligations, age, and health
- Contributions to the marriage
- The length of the marriage
- The impact on child custody, when applicable
- Domestic abuse
If one party refuses to pay spousal support, the receiving party may have grounds to enforce the order through the family court. Enforcing a spousal support order in Louisiana can take many forms, including:
- Collecting interest every additional year due to past-due payments
- Holding them in contempt of court
- Seizing bank account balances
- Setting up wage garnishment
How to Avoid Paying Spousal Support in Louisiana
Spousal support exists to keep things fair between spouses during and after a divorce. Lafayette Parish is home to nearly 250,000 people, including many families. The median household income in Lafayette Parish is $67,660, and the poverty rate is 19.11 percent.
The most effective way to guarantee not having to pay spousal support is to outline terms for support in a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement. These legal contracts allow couples to make binding decisions about certain aspects of their marriage in the event that they separate. That way, they don’t have to make as many tough decisions if it happens.
You can also work with a Louisiana spousal support lawyer to gather evidence and prove that the other party does not actually need the support. Your attorney can help you build a strong case and protect your interests, so you don’t have to deal with unnecessary disruption as you go through your divorce.
It’s important to note that, if you receive a notice to pay court-ordered spousal support, you are obligated to abide by it. It’s possible for the other party to take measures to enforce the order if you decide to ignore it. That said, it is possible to have a spousal support order modified or terminated if new evidence is brought forward that demonstrates a change of circumstances.
FAQs
How Much Is Spousal Support in Louisiana?
How much spousal support can vary greatly from one case to the next. In fact, not all divorces even include spousal support. In general, the court uses complex factors to decide whether spousal support is needed and, if so, how much makes sense. Your divorce attorney can help you determine how the laws apply in your case and how you might minimize or avoid spousal support in your divorce.
Do I Have to Hire a Spousal Support Lawyer to Secure Support Payments in Louisiana?
You’re not legally obligated to hire a spousal support lawyer in Louisiana if you don’t want to, but it’s recommended that you work with a skilled attorney. Divorce laws can be complicated, and it can be challenging to know how they apply to your unique situation. An experienced lawyer guides you through any challenges that arise in the process and gives you the highest possible likelihood of securing the outcome you desire.
What Are the Different Types of Spousal Support in Louisiana?
The main types of spousal support recognized in Louisiana are interim support and final periodic support. Interim support can be requested by the spouse when they file the initial petition and is intended to maintain a fair balance between spouses throughout the divorce. Final spousal support is awarded as a part of the divorce settlement if warranted and kicks in once interim spousal support ends.
When Does Spousal Support End in Louisiana?
When spousal support ends in Louisiana ultimately depends on the details of your case and what the judge determines makes sense for your family’s situation. Interim spousal support is generally awarded until 180 days after the divorce settlement. Final spousal support depends on the length of the marriage. Marriages that lasted over 20 years do not have a statutory limit, while shorter marriages generally can’t exceed 50% of the length of the marriage.
Hire a Spousal Support Lawyer in Louisiana to Learn More Today
Navigating a spousal support case can be complicated, no matter which side you’re on. It’s important to work with a local Louisiana spousal support attorney to ensure you’re going through the proper steps and not setting yourself up for any delays or challenges down the road.
The Law Office of Joshua S. Guillory is built on years of family law experience, specifically tailored to Louisiana residents. We know how to navigate complex cases and aren’t afraid to provide the aggressive advocacy you and your family deserve. Our attorneys are dedicated to upholding our clients’ rights, and each case gets our full commitment. We understand how much is at stake in these cases.
You can count on our team to take the time to learn about your goals for your future as you close this chapter of your life and get ready for the next one. Contact The Law Office of Joshua S. Guillory today to learn more about our services and schedule an initial consultation to discuss your case in more detail.
