Protecting Your Financial Interests In Spousal Support Matters
After a divorce, one household becomes two and there is often significant disparity in the earning power of each spouse. For this reason, it is often appropriate for one spouse to pay the other support payments, on a short- or long-term basis, depending upon the facts of the particular case.
If you have been served with a divorce petition or are thinking about filing for divorce in Southern California, the attorneys at Macksoud Macksoud & Davis, LLP can protect your financial interests in spousal support matters and other divorce issues. Based in Torrance, California, our firm represents clients in Los Angeles County, Orange County and areas throughout Southern California. Our attorneys are experienced negotiators and trial lawyers who are passionately protective of a client’s rights.
How Is Spousal Support Determined?
Factors that influence spousal support in California include:
- The length of the marriage
- The age and health of each party
- The earning power of each party
- Contributions one spouse made to the education, training and career position of the other during the marriage
- The standard of living established during the marriage
Because judicial officers have broad discretion in deciding whether to award spousal support (“alimony”), the award or denial of a spousal support claim is frequently based on the facts and circumstances of a particular case. Thus, it is critical for anyone involved in a California divorce to retain experienced legal counsel to present the facts effectively.
Different Types Of Spousal Support In California
California law provides several paths for financial support after a marriage ends, depending on your unique circumstances:
- Temporary support (Pendente Lite): This is often awarded while a divorce is still in progress. It helps maintain the financial status quo until a final judgment is reached.
- Permanent or long-term support: Despite the name, this is rarely “permanent.” It is typically intended to provide stability for a “set period” based on the length of your marriage.
- Rehabilitative and reimbursement support: These forms of assistance may help a spouse gain the education or training needed to become self-sufficient or repay contributions made to a partner’s career.
The type of support awarded can shape your partner’s future for years to come. Our clear strategy and accurate financial presentation are aimed at making a measurable difference for every client.
What Determines The Amount Of Spousal Support?
While every case is different, the following factors play a central role in the calculation:
- Guideline calculations for temporary support: Many courts use software programs to generate an initial figure. Small differences in income, bonuses or deductions can significantly change the outcome.
- Statutory factors for long-term support: Final orders are based on Family Code factors rather than a fixed formula. The court has broad discretion when weighing earning power and standard of living.
Additionally, pay records, tax returns and documented expenses must be accurate and complete. Inconsistent or incomplete information can weaken your position.
Why Online Spousal Support Calculators Often Fall Short
Relying on basic online calculators can be misleading, as they cannot account for the specific details of your life. While temporary support often follows county guidelines and specific software, long-term support relies on complex statutory factors that a simple algorithm cannot weigh.
Spousal support affects income, housing and long-term planning. Careful legal analysis is far more reliable than an online estimate. We provide diligent, experienced legal representation to navigate these decisions and achieve a fair outcome.
When Can Spousal Support Be Changed Or Ended?
Financial obligations can be modified or terminated if there is a significant change in circumstances:
- Modification: If your income changes or your former spouse’s financial needs shift, we can help you petition the spouse for an adjustment.
- Termination: Support typically ends upon the remarriage of the recipient or the death of either party. Additionally, cohabitation with a new partner may be grounds to reduce or end payments.
With decades of experience and a Certified Family Law Specialist on our team, we provide the protection you need to secure your financial future.
Talk With A Lawyer Who Can Protect Your Financial Future
Whether a case is resolved by agreement or goes to trial, a client should seek the most experienced and qualified attorney they can find. Our attorneys have the experience, diligence and legal sophistication to protect your rights and financial interests. In addition to our experience, we have tremendous resolve. No firm will work harder to protect your rights and seek the best possible result regarding your spousal support matter. To arrange a consultation with an experienced spousal support attorney in Torrance, contact our law offices online or by telephone at 310-961-2989.