Manhattan Beach Spousal Support Attorney
Spousal support, also known as alimony, is a financial obligation that one spouse may be required to pay to the other after a divorce or separation. It is intended to help the lower-earning or non-earning spouse maintain a similar standard of living as during the marriage, especially if they sacrificed their career or education for the family. The amount and duration of spousal support depend on various factors, including the length of the marriage, the financial needs and resources of each spouse, and the ability of the paying spouse to provide support. Courts may also consider the recipient spouse’s ability to become self-sufficient over time. Get a free consultation to understand your spousal support rights and obligations. Our Manhattan Beach spousal support attorney at Baghdaserians Law Group will guide you through the process and provide tailored advice.
Statute of Limitations on Spousal Support in California
There is no specific statute of limitations in California for seeking spousal support; however, requests must be made during the divorce proceedings or shortly thereafter. Once spousal support is ordered, it remains in effect until modified or terminated by the court. If you need to modify or enforce an existing spousal support order, it’s important to address it promptly, as delays may complicate the process.
How is the Amount of Spousal Support Determined
The amount of spousal support is determined based on several factors that aim to achieve fairness for both parties. In California, the court considers factors such as the length of the marriage, the standard of living during the marriage, the financial needs and resources of each spouse, and the ability of the paying spouse to provide support. Other considerations include the recipient spouse’s ability to become self-sufficient, contributions to the spouse’s career or education, and any other relevant circumstances. Courts use these factors to calculate an amount that helps maintain a standard of living similar to that enjoyed during the marriage while being fair to both parties.
Different Types of Spousal Support
In California, there are several types of spousal support:
- Temporary Spousal Support: Ordered during the divorce proceedings to help the lower-earning spouse maintain their standard of living until the divorce is finalized.
- Rehabilitative Spousal Support: Provided to help the recipient spouse gain the skills or education needed to become self-sufficient after the divorce.
- Permanent Spousal Support: Ordered as part of the final divorce decree, this support continues indefinitely or until modified by the court, based on the recipient’s needs and the paying spouse’s ability to provide support.
- Lump-Sum Spousal Support: This is a one-time payment instead of ongoing monthly support. It can be negotiated between the parties or ordered by the court in certain cases.
- Reimbursement Spousal Support: This compensation, which is paid to a spouse for contributions made during the marriage that enhanced the other spouse’s earning capacity, such as supporting their education or career advancement, is called remuneration.
Enforcement of Spousal Support
Enforcement of spousal support involves legal action to ensure the paying spouse complies with court-ordered support payments. If the paying spouse fails to make the required payments, the recipient can seek enforcement through the court. This may include filing a motion for contempt of court, which can lead to penalties or other consequences for non-compliance. The court may also issue wage garnishments, bank account levies, or property liens to collect overdue payments. In some cases, enforcement can involve working with the local child support agency, which can help track and collect payments.
Contact Our Manhattan Beach Alimony Attorney At Baghdaserians Law Group
Contact our Manhattan Beach spousal support attorney at Baghdaserians Law Group for expert assistance with your spousal support needs. We offer personalized guidance to ensure your rights are protected, and your interests are represented effectively. Call us at (626) 460-9525 to get a free consultation today.