Spousal support, sometimes known as alimony, is when a couple separates and financial support is necessary. At AF Law in Sacramento, we know just how challenging these situations can be. When you’re feeling overwhelmed by the situation, knowing that you can seek help from an experienced Sacramento family lawyer makes all the difference in the world.
In California, the amount of spousal support, or alimony, a spouse receives after a divorce is finalized based on many factors, including, but not limited to:
Length of the marriage or domestic partnership
Earning capacity of both spouses
Age and health of each spouse
Standard of living established during the marriage
The length of time spousal support will be paid is determined by the length of the marriage. Generally, if a couple was married for 10 or fewer years, spousal support may be paid for half the marriage length. If the marriage lasted for more than 10 years, the spousal support can be paid for a longer amount of time and requires the payor to request a review at some point in the future.
During the divorce process, the court may also require a spouse to pay temporary spousal support. Keep in mind that even if the court refuses to order spousal support, which can occur in cases where neither spouse requires or wants spousal support, a spouse may file for spousal support in the future if circumstances change. Spousal support may also be modified as circumstances change.
Similar to child support, temporary spousal support is based on a statewide statutory formula. This formula aims to maintain the financial status quo during the period of time between the initial separation of the parties and the final division of property. Each party's income, health care, and child care costs are considered when deciding the amount of temporary spousal support to be awarded. Only an experienced Sacramento family lawyer can help guide you through the temporary spousal support stage of a divorce.
Permanent spousal support is decided without a financial formula. The final amount is based on various factors such as the spouse's ability to pay spousal support, the age and health of the recipient of support, and any special needs that have been identified. Spouses who put their career on hold to raise children may be entitled to compensation depending on the amount of time they were out of the workforce.
No matter what you’re going through, at AF Law, our goal is to be your advocate during a difficult situation. Because there is a great deal that goes into spousal support cases, it is crucial to choose a lawyer who can support you and fight for your rights.
Dealing with spousal support issues can often feel like an uphill battle, but at AF Law, we want you to know that you don’t have to go through this type of situation on your own. With a reputation for transparency, compassion, and access, our team will fight hard to secure your issue with a positive outcome.
Not sure where to turn or how to begin? That’s okay. At AF Law, we’re here to help you make it through this troubling time. Contact us today to start with a consultation and rest assured that you’re in good hands. Contact our experienced Sacramento family lawyers today to start with a consultation and rest assured that you’re in good hands.
CONTACT INFO
9343 Tech Center Drive, Suite 165
Sacramento, CA 95826
EMAIL: info@affamlaw.com
PHONE: (916) 434-1600
FAX: (916) 292-9060
