If you’re facing a divorce and wondering whether you qualify for alimony, you’re not alone. Alimony, also known as spousal support, is a common concern during divorce proceedings, especially if you’re worried about maintaining financial stability once the marriage is over. At Kendall Gkikas & Mitchell, LLP, we know how overwhelming the divorce process can be, and we’re here to break down the topic of alimony.
Alimony is a financial payment from one spouse to the other, typically intended to help the lower-earning spouse maintain a similar standard of living to what they had during the marriage. It’s not automatic, but the courts look at several key factors when deciding whether to award alimony and, if so, how much and for how long.
Keep reading to learn what the court considers when determining alimony!
Length of the Marriage
One of the biggest factors in determining alimony is the length of the marriage. Generally speaking, the longer the marriage, the more likely it is that alimony will be awarded. In California, marriages that last less than 10 years are often considered “short-term,” while those lasting 10 years or more are “long-term.” This distinction can impact not only whether alimony is granted but also how long payments will continue.
Financial Need and Ability to Pay
Alimony is all about balancing the financial playing field. The court will look closely at your financial need and your ex-spouse’s ability to pay. If you’re the lower-earning spouse or a stay-at-home parent with limited job prospects, you might have a stronger case for alimony. On the flip side, if your ex-spouse has a significant income or earning potential, the court will consider that when determining the amount of support.
Standard of Living During the Marriage
Another important factor is the standard of living you enjoyed during your marriage. The court aims to ensure that both spouses can maintain a reasonably similar lifestyle after the divorce. This doesn’t mean you’ll be living exactly the way you did before, but it does mean that your financial needs and lifestyle will be taken into account.
Contributions to the Marriage
The court recognizes that financial sacrifices made for the benefit of the marriage should be considered, especially if those sacrifices have limited your ability to earn income now. If you helped your spouse earn a degree, start a business, or move up the corporate ladder, your alimony lawyer in Los Angeles CA will make sure those contributions are part of your case.
Age and Health of Both Spouses
Your age and health, as well as your ex-spouse’s, also come into play. If you’re older or dealing with health issues that limit your ability to work, the court may be more likely to award alimony. The same goes if your ex-spouse is in good health and has a stable job. The goal is to make sure both parties are financially secure after the divorce, taking health and well-being into account.
Contact Kendall Gkikas & Mitchell, LLP for Help with Alimony in Los Angeles CA
Wondering if you qualify for alimony and how much support you might be entitled to? The best way to get answers tailored to your situation is to speak with an experienced alimony lawyer in Los Angeles CA. At Kendall Gkikas & Mitchell, LLP, we understand the financial and emotional challenges of divorce, and we’re here to help. Give us a call today at 909-482-1422 to schedule a consultation and discuss your case.
