No one enters a marriage with the intention of it ending in divorce. However, this is sometimes the best solution to the issues that have led both parties to this decision. If you are currently facing divorce, your emotions may be overwhelming, leading to communicating with your spouse in a way that might not be beneficial to your case. However, there are important decisions to make that could alter the course of your future. One area that needs to be decided is whether spousal support will be awarded, and if so, how much and for how long. An Irvine spousal support lawyer can help you determine the best course of action in your situation.
Irvine Practice Areas
Your Spousal Support Attorneys
At the Dorie A. Rogers, our Irvine spousal support lawyers can provide you with the guidance and direction you need to make wise decisions about support. We are dedicated to protecting your rights by aggressively pursuing a favorable outcome on your behalf. Our expertise allows us to take a proactive approach in your case. We will listen carefully to your concerns and review your situation with empathy and understanding. Our goal is to help you cope with the divorce proceedings, limit the emotional impact on your life, and ensure that both parties are financially secure in the future.
What Is Spousal Support?
Spousal support is a payment from one spouse to another after a divorce or legal separation. This payment is typically made by the spouse who has more income or assets to the one who earns less. In some cases, a spouse may not have the means to support themselves, which is where the other individual will pay spousal support to assist. It can be temporary or permanent and paid in a lump sum or installments. The purpose of the payment is to provide financial support for the spouse in need while they transition into becoming self-supporting.
How Is Spousal Support Awarded in Orange County Divorce?
When filing for divorce, you or your spouse can be awarded spousal support as part of the settlement. However, this is only available if someone cannot meet basic needs and reasonable expenses now that they are single.
These are some of the significant considerations for how spousal support is awarded. Most exist as temporary spousal support agreements until the spouse can support themselves. Depending on the case, this might be a shorter or longer period, so it’s important to discuss your specific situation with an Irvine spousal support lawyer.
Do I Need the Support of Family Law Attorneys?
The temptation to handle a divorce on your own is strong, but it can have severe consequences if you don’t have any legal experience or background. You will need to have your finances ready, your documentation compiled, and proper knowledge of the law. You will also need to be prepared to deal with family court, which can be intimidating and overwhelming for most people.
Divorce law is also complicated and nuanced, and you may have to handle several different issues that come up in the process, including:
- Property division.
- Custody and visitation.
- Child support and child custody.
- Spousal support issues, such as a request for a reduction in payments.
Child custody and spousal support are the two most likely to be contested by one party, so it’s essential to gain legal counsel to help you through the process. It’s also important to acquire legal counsel if you believe your spouse might fight you on your case.
The right Irvine spousal support lawyer can walk you through the process and let you know how best to protect yourself while working toward a resolution that benefits you.
FAQs
Q: How long does a spouse have to pay alimony in California?
A: Alimony usually ends when the spouse receiving support remarries, starts to live with another person in a romantic relationship, or has built themselves up to be fully independent. The longer the marriage, the longer the alimony will likely be in effect.
Q: How many years do you have to be married to get spousal support in California?
A: The general rule is that you must have been married for 10 years or more to be eligible for spousal support. However, there are exceptions. For example, the judge overseeing your case might be able to award spousal support even if your marriage was less than 10 years. This is called “rehabilitative” alimony and is based on the idea that the spouse receiving support has the skills to work but needs some assistance. This kind of award is usually only made if the reason for the short marriage is due to something beyond your control, such as a chronic illness or disability.
Q: What kind of documentation do I need to provide for spousal support?
A: The court will want you to show proof of your income, how much you are spending on living expenses, and the amount of money you have in savings.
Q: What happens if my partner refuses to pay alimony?
A: If you are awarded spousal support or alimony in your settlement, one spouse will likely be ordered to make payments on a regular basis. If the partner refuses to pay, the person receiving support will need to file a motion with the court to penalize them for not following the order. If this is your situation, you can speak with Irvine spousal support and alimony lawyers to learn more about what steps you need to take to get these necessary payments back on track.
Contact the Dorie A. Rogers in Orange County Today
If you need an Irvine spousal support lawyer, contact the Dorie A. Rogers today to schedule a consultation. Our spousal support attorneys are compassionate and effective caregivers to each client, and we will work hard to get you the results you need to move forward in your life. So, let’s work together to find the best possible solution to ensure spousal support throughout the divorce process.
“Dorie is a very powerful attorney and a great asset to have on your side in any family legal matter. She is extremely bright and insightful, and I got everything I asked for in my lawsuit.”
“I would strongly recommend Ms. Dorie Rogers for any legal needs. During my Divorce proceedings, Dorie’s professionalism, expertise in Divorce Law and legal skill helped bring my case to a close in both a timely and mutually agreeable manner.Additionally, Dorie took the time to understand me and my background to better represent me in my case. She showed a level of caring and concern that helped me through a very difficult time. She is an outstanding lawyer and wonderful person.”
“Second to none – I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Dorie to anyone. She was my attorney for my divorce and custody case. She will do everything it takes to get the job done and all with a smile on her face. Her knowledge and expertise will assist anyone in a family law situation get the results they want.”
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