Miller Family Law Group - Southern California Divorce and Family Law Lawyers
SPOUSAL SUPPORT
If a spouse is entitled to alimony or spousal support, the court awards it in addition to any child support. An award of spousal support is determined by the factors outlined in Family Code § 4320
Either spouse may be ordered to pay spousal support to the other. In California, for short term marriages (defined as marriages less than 10 years), the trend of the Judges is to award one-half the length of the marriage. In long-term marriages (10 years or more), one may be entitled to permanent spousal support, depending on the circumstances.
In awarding permanent spousal support, the judge must consider many factors, such as: each party’s income and earnings; earning capacity; age and health of the parties; obligations and assets of each party; duration of the marriage; each spouse’s monthly expenses; needs of each party based on the standard of living established during the marriage; education, whether there are minor children at home; job skills or occupation of each party, etc.
Either spouse can later ask the judge to change the support amount if the situation changes. A spouse can also ask the judge for help collecting (enforcing) a support order. If the local child support agency is currently helping you collect (enforce) a child support.
If you have any further questions or need additional information about our Family Law services, please do not hesitate to EMAIL US or call (562) 453-6469.
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