Alimony and Spousal Support Attorney in Greenville, South Carolina: What You Need to Know

October 30, 2025

Alimony and Spousal Support Attorney in Greenville, South Carolina: What You Need to Know

Divorce isn’t just an emotional decision—it’s a financial one. In many South Carolina divorces, one of the most contested issues is alimony, also known as spousal support. Whether you’re seeking support or being asked to pay it, understanding how alimony works—and how courts decide—is critical to protecting your future.


At Jason Ward Law, LLC our Greenville-based family law attorneys are here to advocate for your best outcome with clarity, experience, and strategy.


What Is Alimony?

Alimony is financial assistance paid by one spouse to another during or after a divorce. The purpose of alimony is to help the receiving spouse maintain financial stability—especially when there’s a significant difference in income or earning potential between the parties.

In South Carolina, either spouse may request alimony, and awards are based on what is fair—not just traditional roles or gender.


How Is Alimony Determined in South Carolina?

There is no fixed formula for alimony in South Carolina. Instead, judges consider several factors under S.C. Code § 20-3-130, including:

  • Length of the marriage
  • Marital standard of living
  • Each spouse’s age, health, and education
  • Income and earning potential
  • Contributions to the marriage (financial and non-financial)
  • Child custody responsibilities
  • Marital misconduct or fault (e.g., adultery)


The court has wide discretion, which makes it crucial to present thorough financial evidence and a compelling case.


Types of Alimony Available

South Carolina offers different forms of alimony based on each couple’s situation:

  • Permanent periodic alimony: Ongoing monthly payments until the recipient remarries or either party dies.
  • Rehabilitative alimony: Short-term support to help one spouse become self-sufficient (e.g., job training or education).
  • Reimbursement alimony: Compensation for past contributions to the other spouse’s success (e.g., paying for law school).
  • Lump sum alimony: A one-time payment instead of ongoing support.
  • Separate maintenance and support: Temporary support for separated spouses when divorce hasn’t been finalized yet.


We help clients determine which type of alimony applies—and fight for an award that fits their goals.


Can Alimony Be Modified or Terminated?

Yes. If circumstances significantly change—like a job loss, retirement, or remarriage—either party may petition to modify or terminate the alimony order. But modifications must be approved by the court, and it's important to have legal representation when requesting changes.


Why Legal Representation Matters

Alimony decisions can reshape your financial future—for better or worse. Whether you need to secure support or protect your income from an unfair request, working with an experienced attorney ensures:

  • Clear financial disclosures and documentation
  • Skilled negotiation and courtroom advocacy
  • A fair and enforceable result


At Jason Ward Law, LLC, we understand how high the stakes are. We’ll build a tailored legal strategy that aligns with your needs and puts you in a position to move forward with confidence.


Talk to a Greenville Alimony Lawyer Today

Your future deserves a focused, strategic legal partner. Whether you're initiating a claim for alimony or defending against one, we’re here to help you take control.

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Alimony can be one of the most complex aspects of divorce, and many misconceptions can lead to confusion. At Jason Ward Law, we’re here to clarify these myths to help you understand the realities of alimony in South Carolina. Myth 1: Alimony is Automatically Awarded in Every Divorce Fact: Alimony is not a guaranteed outcome in every divorce case. South Carolina courts consider various factors, including the length of the marriage, the financial needs of the requesting spouse, and the other spouse's ability to pay. Each case is unique, and the decision to award alimony depends on specific circumstances. Myth 2: Alimony Payments Are Permanent Fact: While some alimony awards can be permanent, many are temporary or rehabilitative. Temporary alimony is designed to support a spouse for a limited time, often while they gain skills or education to become self-sufficient. Courts also have the authority to modify or terminate alimony based on changes in circumstances, such as job loss or significant changes in income. Myth 3: Alimony Payments Are Non-Taxable Fact: Prior to the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, alimony payments were tax-deductible for the payer and considered taxable income for the recipient. However, for divorces finalized after December 31, 2018, this tax treatment changed, making alimony payments non-deductible for the payer and non-taxable for the recipient. Understanding the tax implications is essential for both parties. Myth 4: You Don’t Need a Lawyer for Alimony Negotiations Fact: While it is possible to negotiate alimony without legal representation, having a knowledgeable attorney can make a significant difference. A lawyer can help you understand your rights, sort through the complexities of alimony laws, and ensure that any agreement is fair and legally binding. This can ultimately save you time, stress, and potential financial loss. Being informed about the realities of alimony in South Carolina can empower you to make better decisions during the divorce process. At Jason Ward Law, we are here to provide you with accurate information and proficient legal guidance. If you have questions about alimony or need assistance with your case, don’t hesitate to reach out for a consultation.

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Premises liability claims can pose significant risks for property owners in South Carolina. Understanding how to defend against these claims is crucial for protecting your interests. Here are some key points to consider: Understanding Your Responsibilities Duty of Care: Property owners are required to maintain a safe environment for visitors. Understanding what constitutes reasonable care is essential in preventing accidents. Categories of Visitors: Know the different types of visitors—invitees, licensees, and trespassers—and the varying levels of responsibility owed to each. Regular Maintenance and Inspections Proactive Measures: Regularly inspect your property for hazards and address any safety issues promptly. This includes maintaining walkways, lighting, and overall cleanliness. Documentation: Keep detailed records of maintenance and inspections. This documentation can be critical in demonstrating your commitment to safety. Visitor Awareness and Warnings Clear Signage: Use signage to warn visitors of potential hazards, such as wet floors or uneven surfaces. Proper warnings can help mitigate liability. Educating Employees: If you operate a business, train employees to recognize and address safety issues, ensuring they understand the importance of maintaining a safe environment. Gathering Evidence Incident Reports: If an accident occurs, document the details immediately. Gather witness statements and photographs of the scene to support your case. Security Footage: If available, review and preserve any security camera footage that may provide context to the incident. Legal Representation Consult an Attorney: If faced with a premises liability claim, consult a knowledgeable attorney. They can help you manage the legal complexities and build a strong defense Insurance Coverage**: Review your insurance policy to ensure adequate coverage for potential claims. Understand what is covered and how to work with your insurer during a claim.  Defending against premises liability claims requires a proactive approach and a solid understanding of your responsibilities as a property owner. By maintaining your property, educating your visitors, and seeking legal guidance, you can better protect yourself from potential claims. At Jason Ward Law, we are here to help you work through these challenges with proficiency and support.