California Spousal and Partner Support Attorney
Will your divorce include an order to pay spousal or partner support? That is not an easy question. The family court can consider many factors in making a determination. A family law attorney at the Northern California Family Law Group can help you determine what is fair given the specific circumstances of your marriage or domestic partnership.
Divorce ∙ Spousal and Partner Support (Alimony)
916-498-1240 ∙ E-Mail
Unlike child support, there is no formula in California which determines spousal or partner support (also called alimony). We encourage our clients to develop their own spousal or partner support agreement:
- Temporary support: Following the separation and prior to the final divorce, there may be a need for temporary spousal or partner support. Whether we represent the supporting spouse or partner or the party seeking support, we will act quickly to establish what that support should be.
- Earning capacity: What is the earning capacity of the supported spouse or partner? What is the earning capacity and ability to pay of the supporting spouse or partner? The goal in any case is to move toward both parties becoming self-supporting. The court also takes into consideration the marital standard of living and contributions the supported spouse or partner may have made to the education and training of the supporting spouse or partner.
- Obligations, assets and taxes: What debts does the couple have? Does one or both of the parties have separate property? What effect will support have on tax obligations?
- Age, health and length of marriage: After a long-term marriage or domestic partnership (more than 10 years), there may be a need for long-term financial support following the date of divorce. Do age and health issues prevent a spouse or partner from being self-supporting?
- Domestic violence: A history of domestic violence can affect the need and obligation for alimony.
- Interests of the children: Is it in the best interest of the children for one spouse or partner to remain at home to care for the children?
In the end, the family court will look for a just and equitable solution to spousal or partner support. Talk to your divorce lawyer about a support agreement that would be fair to you and your spouse or partner.
At the Northern California Family Law Group, you can begin now to plan for the rest of your life. Our clients see our law firm as a safe place where they can find solutions to family law matters. Call for an appointment. $100 one-hour initial consultation.
