Ringgold, GA Divorce Law Firms & Lawyers

You may or may not be required to pay alimony for some period of time; you need to consult an attorney familiar with Georgia law to evaluate the actual facts of your case in the context of what Georgia law requires. As a rule, alimony involves a balancing test of need versus ability to pay and alimony is only payable for the time it appears necessary for the receiving spouse to become self-sufficient. In some states infidelity will bar alimony; in other states, infidelity is not relevant to anything.

It all depends on a number of  factors. If you are seeking an uncontested divorce, you may be able to obtain a hearing within 31 days after filing.  An uncontested divorce means the spouses agree to all terms.  If there is a dispute on any issue, it is not an uncontested divorce and the time frame for obtaining a divorce will be extended.  When you file a contested divorce, a temporary hearing can be requested to address temporary spousal support, visitation, custody, and possession of the marital residence.  The judge's calendar and the ability to serve the respondent spouse will dictate the timing of the temporary hearing.   The judge can also order mediation or you can request mediation.  Mediation may resolve all the disputed issues and push the timetime up  for obtaining a divorce.  Otherwise, it may take upwards of 9 months to a year (if not longer) from filing to final hearing to obtain a divorce.  Six months is taken up with discovery.  If there are multiple disputes with minor children, the process can be very long. 

You can use his vehicle in his name if you are still married and have a community interest in the car. BUT, if you are separated, be very careful that he does not report you as having stolen his vehicle if you are driving it. If it's in his name, you may not be able to prove to the cops that you have an ownership interest through marriage. People have a bad habit of turning on each other when they are "separated."