No matter how long a marriage lasts, there is often a disparity in income levels between the spouses. When the marriage ends, one spouse may require support to get settled in their new life and get back on their feet.
If you are getting a divorce and you or your spouse needs spousal support, then you want a knowledgeable Orange County spousal support lawyer to protect your interests. At the Law Offices of David P. Schwarz, we offer knowledgeable guidance to clients going through a divorce. Our divorce attorneys can help you understand spousal support in California and work toward an agreement that works for you.
To schedule a free consultation with an attorney at our firm, contact our Orange County spousal support lawyers online or call us at 714-361-9875 or toll-free 877-387-7112 . We are available evenings and weekends by appointment.
How Does Spousal Support Work?
Spousal support, also known as alimony or spousal maintenance, is determined on a case-by-case basis during a divorce. There are two types of alimony: temporary and permanent. Permanent spousal support is usually available when the divorcing couple has been married for more than 10 years and is dictated by California Family Code section 4320. Temporary spousal support is typically calculated through the California Dissomaster program. Additionally, in most circumstances, a court will retain jurisdiction over spousal support if you have been married for more than 10 years.
If you have been married for less than 10 years, you will usually be granted temporary spousal support. Generally, temporary spousal support is granted for a period equal to half the length of the marriage.
The court determines the amount of spousal support by analyzing a number of factors, including the following:
- Gross monthly income of both parties
- Ability of one party to pay another
- Need of one party
- Disparity of income during the marriage
- Current employment and employability of both parties
- Age of the parties
- Health of the parties
- Whether one party stayed home to raise children
Modification of Spousal Support
If there has been a significant change in circumstances since your original spousal support order, , we can help you seek a modification. We also help clients who are paying spousal support by seeking a Gavron warning, which puts your ex-spouse on notice that they must seek employment within a reasonable period of time.
Retain a Santa Ana Spousal Support Lawyer
For answers to your questions about spousal support, contact our Santa Ana spousal support attorneys. We can help you understand your options and give you an honest assessment of your possible spousal support payments.
