Sherman Oaks Spousal Support
When a marriage ends, the question of spousal support inevitably arises. Whether you’re facing a demand for spousal support from your soon-to-be ex-partner or you believe you’re entitled to it yourself, navigating this aspect of divorce requires the help of licensed professionals. That’s where our Sherman Oaks spousal support lawyer steps in—advocating for your interests and striving for a favorable resolution.
Courts consider various factors when contemplating spousal support, including the duration of the marriage, the respective incomes of both parties, and each spouse’s ability to achieve financial independence. The goal is to balance the financial scales between spouses during and after divorce, effectively assisting the lower-earning or non-earning spouse.
Accurate income documentation, thorough asset investigation, and skilled evidence presentation are vital for fair spousal support orders. Partnering with our seasoned family law attorneys is critical. Whether seeking or contesting support payments, prompt consultation is crucial. We also modify existing arrangements by skillfully supporting adjustment requests with court petitions and evidence.
Contact our Sherman Oaks, CA, law firm as soon as possible to take decisive legal action. We are committed to achieving your best possible outcomes efficiently and with minimal stress.
Call Benefield Law - Family Law Trial Advocates P.C. at (310) 807-6759 for a Free Consultation with a Sherman Oaks Spousal Support Lawyer!
Types of Spousal Support
Understanding your rights and responsibilities regarding spousal support is crucial before initiating divorce proceedings. Knowing why support is granted, its duration, and the expected amount aids in preparing for the process. Our Sherman Oaks spousal support lawyer is adept at clarifying these aspects and comprehensively guiding you through the process.
In California, the aim is for both parties to achieve self-sufficiency within a reasonable timeframe. Spousal support bridges this transition period, enabling the supported spouse to secure employment or resources to meet living expenses.
Various types of spousal support can be determined by mutual agreement or court order, catering to different needs and circumstances:
Temporary Spousal Support: Provided during divorce proceedings, covering daily expenses and legal fees. This type of support ends once the divorce is finalized but could be replaced by another after the settlement.
Rehabilitative Spousal Support: This aids in acquiring job skills or education for self-sufficiency post-divorce. It is typically awarded to spouses who sacrificed their careers to raise their families or support the higher-earning spouse.
Reimbursement Spousal Support: This reimburses the spouse who helped advance the higher-earning spouse’s career or education by providing monetary contributions and making other sacrifices. California is among the few states that award this kind of spousal support.
Lump-Sum Spousal Support: A one-time payment instead of monthly installments. Often granted when the receiving spouse won’t take much from the community property, and the higher-earning spouse will pay for their supposed share of the property.
Permanent Spousal Support: Ongoing payments without a definite end. It is typically provided when old age, medical conditions, and other factors prevent a spouse from re-entering the workforce.
Each type serves distinct purposes, tailored to individual needs and situations. Our legal team at Benefield Law - Family Law Trial Advocates P.C. ensures clarity and proactive advocacy throughout the process, securing equitable outcomes for you and your family.
Factors Affecting Spousal Support
In California, spousal support determinations hinge on various factors outlined in California Family Code 4320. These factors guide the court in assessing the amount and duration of support. They include the following:
- Each party’s earning capacity about the marital standard of living, including skills, job market, and potential for retraining.
- Impact of unemployment periods during the marriage on the supported party’s earning potential.
- Contributions the supported party makes to the other’s education, career, or licensure.
- We support the party’s financial ability, considering income, assets, and standard of living.
- Parties’ needs are based on the marital standard of living.
- Obligations and assets of each party, including separate property.
- Duration of the marriage.
- Supported party’s ability to work without adversely affecting dependent children.
- Parties’ age and health.
- History of domestic violence.
- Tax implications for each party.
- Hardships faced by each party.
- The supported party’s goal is to achieve feasibility within a reasonable timeframe.
Based on these factors, spousal support rulings vary. Typically, support lasts half the duration of marriages under ten years, while long-term marriages (those that last beyond ten years) have indefinite support orders.
Our Sherman Oaks spousal support attorneys are equipped to secure fair court orders. We provide exceptional guidance tailored to your circumstances, ensuring accurate calculations and realistic expectations. Contact us to explore your options and achieve equitable outcomes in your marital dissolution case.
Spousal Support Modification
Court-ordered spousal support arrangements aren’t set in stone. If circumstances warrant, modifications can be requested, and the court can approve changes based on valid reasons.
As the recipient, if your needs have increased—for education, medical expenses, or other essential purposes—you can seek an adjustment in the support amount. Conversely, if you’re the paying spouse facing financial hardship hindering timely payments or your ex-spouse’s situation has significantly improved, you can petition for a modification to reflect these changes.
Our Sherman Oaks spousal support attorney is highly skilled at refining agreement terms. We meticulously follow California court guidelines, gather necessary documents, notify the other party, and present compelling evidence for your modification request.
Should the other party seek modifications, we rigorously review proposed changes against the original terms, ensuring fairness and protecting your interests. Trust us to advocate for your rights and secure equitable terms in any necessary adjustments.
Free Consultation Today
At Benefield Law - Family Law Trial Advocates P.C., we understand the intricacies of life post-divorce. As your trusted legal advisor, our team of spousal support lawyers is dedicated to facilitating a smoother transition during this challenging time. Securing a fair spousal support agreement is paramount in safeguarding your financial well-being throughout and beyond the divorce proceedings.
Whether you’re the payer or recipient of spousal support, our lawyers are staunch legal advocates, ensuring meticulous and equitable evaluations and calculations. Moreover, should circumstances warrant modifications to the original agreement, we can initiate legal steps on your behalf.
Trust us to navigate the legal complexities, providing steadfast support to protect your interests every step of the way!
Call Benefield Law - Family Law Trial Advocates P.C. at (310) 807-6759 for a Free Consultation with a Sherman Oaks Spousal Support Lawyer!