Pasadena Spousal Support Attorney

With all the inherent stress of a divorce, financial woes should be the last thing you worry about. Unfortunately, it often becomes the biggest stressor in an already tense situation. Chief among these worries is the issue of spousal support, and those concerns stretch between both spouses. The person who needs support fears they may not receive enough. The paying spouse may be concerned about getting fleeced.

At its best, spousal support is about protection. If one spouse relies on the other for survival, being suddenly cut off financially can be devastating. Spousal support is there to keep this spouse fed and clothed as they rebuild and restructure their lives.

Trust Marilyn Smith Law APC to help you negotiate a fair, reasonable amount of support that benefits one partner without bankrupting the other. With years of experience, our team is here to help Pasadena residents will all their spousal support needs.

Negotiating Spousal Support in California

Spousal support (or alimony) is often a contentious topic among divorcing spouses in Los Angeles county. Though spousal support is paid in many divorces, it is not required in 100% of cases. Unless you and the other parent come agree on your own, it is up to the judge to decide.

When determining payments, the court may consider:

• The length of the marriage
• Each spouse’s contribution to the marriage
• Each spouse’s assets after property division
• What each parent contributes to child support
• Each spouse’s current income and earning potential
• The lifestyle each spouse enjoyed during the marriage

Domestic Violence and Spousal Support

Evidence of domestic violence can affect a spousal support ruling. In this way, a divorce court can behave like a civil court. It may choose to punish the abuser by ordering a greater degree of support to the victim.

If you’ve suffered abuse from your spouse, reach out to our firm for help. We may be able to help you seek justice through spousal support. Alternatively, if you are facing unfounded abuse accusations, we are here to help protect you from unnecessary punishments.

Modifying Spousal Support

Spousal support can be altered if either party experiences a significant life change. This is true for both the paying and receiving parties.

Income is a big part of a spousal support ruling, and a job change can modify payments. If the receiving spouse earns more money, the paying spouse can request a modification. Also, if the paying spouse is laid off, demoted, or otherwise economically impaired beyond their control, they can request a lower payment.

Similar life events can include a new baby, changes in child support, or a remarriage. Call our team if you believe you are eligible for a spousal support modification. We can review your case and help you plead to the court.