When spouses or domestic partners legally separate, divorce, or otherwise legally terminate their relationship, one of the parties may seek spousal support, also known as alimony or maintenance, from the other.
In order to establish and receive spousal support, a court case will ensue. An order from the court for spousal or partner support can also be pursued in cases of domestic violence. A temporary support order can be requested while a divorce or legal separation is pending. It can also be requested as permanent support once the case is finalized. The two important factors in this matter will be how much the support will be and how long it will be required.
Spousal Support in California
In the determination of spousal support, courts will consider many factors. These include the employment skills of the spouse requesting support, how much education, training, or time may be required to improve those skills, and how the earning capacity of that spouse was affected during the marriage or partnership by domestic duties. Another important factor considered is how long the marriage or partnership lasted. A general rule of thumb is that spousal support may be required for half of the length of the marriage or partnership. In long-term marriages, such as those exceeding 10 years, however, this rule of thumb may not apply, resulting in longer terms of support.
Judges have the discretion to determine the issue of spousal support, based on the facts and circumstances of each individual case. Ensuring that your case is presented in an effective manner, whether you are seeking or contesting support, is crucial. Our firm will work vigorously to help you obtain your objectives in these matters.
Contact a Los Angeles spousal support lawyer at the firm for vigorous legal representation in any spousal support matter today.
The information on this website is for general information purposes only. Nothing on this site should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship.
