ALIMONY

Alimony, also referred to as “spousal support”, is an important matter in the divorce process. When one spouse is the primary source of income in a marriage, the lower income spouse may need financial support following a divorce. Alimony is money paid by one spouse to the other in order to maintain their former standard of living. Courts will often decide who will be paid alimony if a couple is unable to agree. Although the finances of a divorce are difficult to agree on, instead of leaving the decision to the court, it is wiser to work on a proposal beforehand and present a plan to the judge for her verdict. As alimony is addressed in both uncontested and contested divorces, it is vital to have a tactful lawyer from the California Family Law Attorney Group who will work with you to help ensure payments are fair.

The length of time as well as amount of spousal support is determined by variety of factors, including: the age and health of the dependent spouse, the duration of the marriage, income for each spouse, which spouse has custody of children, and the assets and debts of each spouse.

Generally, the court awards four types of alimony:

• Temporary – Temporary alimony to a spouse during the divorce.
• Purpose – Purposeful spousal support is provided for a spouse until they are self-sustaining.
• Rehabilitative – Alimony in this case is mean to provide a spouse with assistance until they find self-sustaining employment through training or education.
• Permanent: Support is typically provided until a spouse remarries or dies. However, the duration can vary.

Contact an attorney at the California Family Law Attorney Group today to help you determine the amount of alimony to pay or receive. Spousal support is not calculated by standard guidelines and can be difficult to negotiate. We want to assist you with your legal rights, but also guide you through your divorce and onto a brighter future.