When you get divorced, one of the things you have to worry about is alimony. How much spousal support will you receive? It can be tough to know what to expect since it depends on various factors. In this post, we’ll break down those factors to better understand how much spousal support you might get. However, remember that these are just estimates – the final amount could be different. So if you’re getting divorced in Los Angeles and are worried about Los Angeles spousal support, keep reading!
What is Spousal Support and how is It Calculated?
Spousal support, also known as alimony, is a payment from one spouse to another after the end of a marriage. In California, a court calculates spousal support on the basis of several factors. It include each spouse’s income and earning potential, marriage length, and living standard.
The higher-earning spouse typically pays spousal support to the lower-earning spouse. A court usually determines the amount of spousal support but you can also negotiate it with your ex-partner as part of a divorce settlement.
Spousal support payments are typically made monthly but can be made in other ways, such as a lump sum payment. In some cases, a court may order spousal support to be paid until either the spouse’s death or the receiving spouse’s remarriage.
If you are going through a divorce in Los Angeles, it is essential to understand how Los Angeles spousal support is calculated and what factors the court considers.
The Los Angeles Superior Court uses Spousal Support Advisory Guidelines to help determine the amount of spousal support that should be paid. The advisory guideline takes into account several factors, including:
- The income and earning capacity of each spouse
- The ages of each spouse
- The duration of the marriage
- The standard of living during the marriage
- The contributions each spouse made to the marriage, including raising children and homemaking
- Any financial or economic circumstances that would make it difficult for a spouse to become self-sufficient
Jasmine Mines, a Los Angeles divorce lawyer, can help you understand how these factors will affect the amount of spousal support you may be ordered to pay or receive.
Can I Change or Terminate My Spousal Support Payments?
In Los Angeles, spousal support payments may be modified or terminated under certain circumstances. If you are paying or receiving spousal support, it’s essential to understand when and how these changes can occur.
Spousal support payments may be modified or terminated if there is a change in circumstances. For example, if the person receiving support gets remarried, they will no longer be eligible for spousal support payments. Similarly, if the person paying support experiences a significant change in income, they may petition the court to modify the support amount.
In some cases, spousal support may be terminated entirely. This can happen if the couple reconciles or if they both die.
If you are considering modifying or terminating your spousal support payments, you must speak with a Los Angeles family law attorney. They can help you understand California’s laws and ensure your rights are protected.
What Are the Consequences of Not Paying Spousal Support?
If you are ordered to pay spousal support in Los Angeles and you fail to make those payments, there can be some serious consequences. The court can order wage garnishment, meaning the money will be taken directly from your paycheck. They can also order your bank accounts to be frozen and may even put a lien on your property. If you are found in contempt of court, you could be fined or even sent to jail. So if you are ordered to pay spousal support, making sure you make those payments on time and in full is vital.
Bottom Line
You can’t always predict how much spousal support you’re going to get, but there are some things you can do to give yourself a better chance. First, try to come to an agreement with your spouse outside of court. If that’s not possible, work with a qualified Los Angeles family lawyer who understands the Los Angeles Spousal Support Guidelines and has experience arguing these cases before a judge.
Jasmine Mines at The Mines Law Firm has helped clients reach a fair settlement on their spousal support payments. Contact us today for more information about how we can help you.
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Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific legal guidance on your case, please contact The Mines Law Firm for representation.