In Need of a Spousal Support Attorney?
At Markey Law Offices, we recognize that spousal support is one of the most pressing concerns for divorcing couples. Questions about eligibility, determining support, and how long payments may last are common during this challenging time. Our Thousand Oaks family law attorney, Paulina Markey, is here to provide clear answers, personalized guidance, and dedicated advocacy to help you navigate the complexities of spousal support in California.
Who Can Receive Spousal Support in California?
In California, spousal support—often referred to as alimony—is designed to ensure that both spouses can maintain a standard of living close to what they had during the marriage. Either spouse can request support, regardless of gender, and eligibility is based on various factors, not simply income disparity.
Typically, spousal support is awarded to help:
- A lower-earning spouse regains financial independence.
- Offset any significant disparities in income or earning potential.
- Provide financial assistance during and after the divorce process.
Contact our Ventura County and Los Angeles County family law firm today if you have questions about your spousal support eligibility during and after a California divorce.
How Is California Spousal Support Determined?
California family law courts consider several factors when determining spousal support.
These include:
- Duration of the Marriage: Long-term marriages (10+ years) may result in longer spousal support durations.
- Income and Earning Capacity: The court evaluates both parties’ current and future earning potential.
- Age and Health: Both spouses’ physical and emotional condition plays a role.
- Contributions to the Marriage: This includes contributions as a homemaker or supporting the other spouse’s education or career.
- Standard of Living: The goal is to help both parties maintain a standard of living similar to what they experienced during the marriage.
- Any History of Domestic Violence: Abuse or violence within the marriage is a critical factor in determining support.
How Long Does Spousal Support Last in California?
The duration of spousal support in California depends on several factors, including the length of the marriage and the specific circumstances of the case.
Here’s a breakdown of how spousal support duration is typically determined:
Temporary Spousal Support
- Temporary spousal support is awarded during the divorce process to help the lower-earning spouse maintain stability until the divorce is finalized.
- It lasts only until a final spousal support order is issued as part of the divorce judgment.
Long-term or Permanent Spousal Support
- For marriages lasting less than 10 years, support is typically ordered for half the length of the marriage. For example, spousal support may be awarded for three years if the marriage lasted six years.
- For marriages lasting 10 years or more, often referred to as “long-term marriages,” the court may not set an end date. Instead, support may continue indefinitely, with periodic reviews to determine whether it is still needed.
Spousal support may terminate in several situations, including:
- Expiration of the Court-Ordered Term: Once the set duration expires for shorter marriages.
- Remarriage of the Supported Spouse: Support automatically ends if the recipient remarries.
- Death of Either Spouse: Support obligations terminate upon the death of either party unless otherwise agreed upon.
- Mutual Agreement or Modification: Both parties may agree to end support earlier, or a court may modify the order due to significant changes in circumstances, including the loss of income or retirement.
Can California Spousal Support Be Modified or Extended?
Yes, spousal support can be modified or extended if there is a significant change in circumstances, such as:
- A job loss or a decrease in income for the paying spouse.
- Health issues or other financial hardships for the supported spouse.
- Continued financial need or inability to become self-sufficient.
At Markey Law Offices, we understand that spousal support can significantly impact your financial future. Our experienced Thousand Oaks family law attorney, Paulina Markey, provides personalized guidance to help you navigate the complexities of spousal support, whether you’re requesting, negotiating, modifying, or enforcing it.
Contact our Ventura County and Los Angeles County family law firm today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you achieve a fair and just resolution for your spousal support needs.
Markey Law Offices: Comprehensive California Spousal Support Legal Services
At Markey Law Offices, we assist with every aspect of spousal support, including:
- Filing Requests for Support: Helping you request temporary or permanent spousal support as part of your divorce case.
- Negotiation and Mediation: Working to reach a fair and amicable agreement on support without costly litigation.
- Litigation: Representing your interests in court if an agreement cannot be reached.
- Modifications: Assisting with changes to spousal support orders due to significant life changes, such as job loss or remarriage.
- Enforcement: Ensuring that court-ordered spousal support payments are made on time and in full.
We know that spousal support is more than just numbers—it’s about securing your financial stability and future. When you work with us, you’ll communicate directly with an attorney who will take the time to understand your unique circumstances, answer your questions, and build a strategy tailored to your goals.
We believe that family law is about people, not just legal matters. From your first consultation to the final resolution, we’re here to provide guidance, clarity, and confidence every step of the way. Our fully remote services allow you to connect with us via call, text, email, or Zoom for seamless and personalized legal support when and where you need it.
We Also Focus on the Following Areas:
- Property Division.
- Divorce
- Child Custody.
- Child Support.
- Prenuptial Agreements.
- Spousal Support.
- Domestic Violence/Restraining Orders.
- Minor’s Counsel
Take the First Step Towards Financial Independence Today: Contact Our Dedicated Spousal Support Attorneys in Thousand Oaks, California
Spousal support can significantly impact your financial future. Let Markey Law Offices help you navigate this complex process with care and precision. Contact our Ventura County and Los Angeles County family law firm today to schedule your consultation. We’ll work toward a solution that sets you on the best path forward.