Are you going through a divorce and worried about spousal support? Whether you are concerned about making payments or getting the financial assistance you need, navigating California’s spousal support laws can be overwhelming. Many factors determine who receives alimony, how much they receive, and how long payments last for. If you are facing a dispute over spousal support, keep reading to learn more about the process and how Kendall Gkikas & Mitchell, LLP can help.
Understanding Spousal Support in California
Spousal support, also known as alimony, is financial assistance that one spouse may be required to pay the other after a divorce. The purpose of these payments is to help the lower-earning spouse maintain financial stability while they transition to supporting themselves. California law recognizes a couple different types of spousal support, two of which, are temporary and long-term.
Temporary spousal support is granted during the divorce process and is meant to cover immediate financial needs. Long-term spousal support is determined once the divorce is finalized and is based on multiple factors, including the length of the marriage and each spouse’s financial situation. Because these decisions can significantly impact your financial future, having an experienced attorney by your side is crucial.
How Spousal Support is Determined
California courts consider many factors when determining spousal support. The length of the marriage plays a major role, as longer marriages typically result in longer payment periods. The court will also look at the earning capacity of both spouses, their standard of living during the marriage, and whether one spouse sacrificed career opportunities to support the household. A divorce lawyer in Walnut CA can help with your case by ensuring that all relevant factors are taken into account and that the support order is fair.
Modifying or Terminating Spousal Support
Spousal support orders are not always permanent. If circumstances change, either spouse may request a modification. A significant change in income, job loss, or the receiving spouse’s remarriage could all justify an adjustment or termination of payments. If the paying spouse can no longer afford the ordered amount or if the receiving spouse no longer needs financial support, a request for modification can be filed. However, courts will require proof of the changed circumstances before granting a modification. An divorce lawyer in Walnut CA can help gather and present the necessary evidence to support your case. Whether you are seeking to lower your payments or ensure continued support, working with a lawyer is the best way to protect your financial interests.
Contact Kendall Gkikas & Mitchell, LLP for Help with Spousal Support Cases in Walnut CA
If you are dealing with spousal support issues, you don’t have to go through it alone. Whether you need to establish, modify, or enforce spousal support, a divorce lawyer in Walnut CA can help you understand your rights and fight for a fair outcome. Kendall Gkikas & Mitchell, LLP has 31 years of experience handling spousal support cases and will advocate for your best interests. Give us a call today at 909-482-1422 to discuss your case and schedule an initial consultation.
