Alimony in Louisiana
State-specific overview · Family Law
Louisiana uses "spousal support" with strict need-based standards; the obligor must have surplus income after meeting their own needs and child support obligations.
How Louisiana treats Alimony
Louisiana law requires the obligee to prove actual need and the obligor to have surplus income available after paying their own living expenses and any child support. The court examines the standard of living during marriage, each party's financial resources, earning capacity, and age and health. Spousal support terminates upon the obligee's remarriage or the death of either party. Louisiana's approach is more restrictive than many states, focusing narrowly on need rather than equitable distribution of marital resources.
The general definition of Alimony
Court-ordered payments from one spouse to another after divorce or separation.
Alimony is money that a court requires one spouse to pay to the other after they divorce or legally separate. It's designed to help the lower-earning spouse maintain a similar standard of living they had during the marriage. The amount and duration depend on factors like how long the marriage lasted, each person's income and earning ability, and their age and health. Alimony is different from child support, which is specifically for children's needs.
Read the full Alimony entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in Louisiana.