Divorce proceedings are always difficult, particularly when it comes to finances. Will one spouse get spousal support in California? How much spousal support should be awarded? And how is that determination made?
Below, we discuss five factors a judge considers when granting spousal support in divorce proceedings. Keep in mind that the court looks at many factors when determining spousal support. Our San Jose divorce attorney can help you understand California spousal support laws.
Reason #1: Existing Needs and Standard of Living
During the financial part of divorce proceedings, the court will look at many factors. These factors include the debts, income, available resources, and needs of each spouse.
The court considers how much support each spouse needs to maintain the standard of living established in marriage. If one spouse clearly has more needs than the other spouse, some form of spousal support or alimony may be awarded. The court also looks at whether the supporting spouse can handle payments.
The court considers how much support each spouse needs to maintain the standard of living established in marriage. The court There are several types of spousal support in California. The most common is regular spousal support payments.
It is important to note that the court considers the needs of both spouses equally. This is regardless of gender. The system relies on a series of requirements that fairly represent both parties.
Reason #2: Household Contribution and Earning Capacity
Another important factor when determining spousal support in California is household contribution. How much did each person contribute during the marriage? If one spouse contributed much more than the other, they may seek a refund.
For example, if one spouse handled the car payment and rent while married, and the other spouse was capable of assisting but did not, that spouse could be required to return some of the money that supported them.
Reason #3: Length of Marriage
The court will often consider the length of marriage in determining spousal support. Throughout the marriage, one spouse may have become more reliant on the other spouse. This could be due to shared children or an adjustment to a different standard of living.
The more dependent spouse must have an appropriate amount of time to adjust to a new reality. For example, if the couple spent two decades together, the support might last for ten years. If the couple spent less than two years together, it might last for less than six months.
Reason #4: General Health
If one spouse has significantly poor health, he or she may have a better likelihood of receiving spousal support. This can depend on the severity of existing health problems. It may also depend on when these problems began and treatment frequency.
Reason #5: Employment and Ability
Finally, a judge may consider the employment history of both spouses. Employment history is important to look at each spouse’s earning potential moving forward.
If one spouse is more dependent, will he or she have the ability to maintain a full-time job that offers the same standard of living? And, if so, how long will it take for the dependent spouse to find such a job?
Contact an Experienced Divorce Attorney for Assistance
Do you feel that you might need spousal support? Again, these are only a few factors the court considers when awarding spousal support in California. Understanding California spousal support laws can help you get the help you need.
For professional representation, contact our San Jose divorce lawyer at the Law Offices of Thomas Nicholas Cvietkovich. Call us at (408) 844-4016 or fill out our online contact form.