Spousal support (previously called “alimony”) is one of the most hotly contested issues in a divorce. When a couple, who is already struggling financially then separates, money becomes much tighter. The same money that was used to support one household, is now expected to be able to support two households. This is one reason divorce can be financially devastating to both parties. Although the cost of living in the Temecula and Murrieta areas is lower than other parts of Southern California, it is still difficult to make ends meet after a divorce.
If you are going through a divorce and one spouse is not working, chances are that an order for spousal support will be made. Calculating how much support will be owed and for how long it will be paid depends on your particular situation. Typically, people paying spousal support will feel that the amount to be paid is unfair, because it will be financially difficult for them. People who receive spousal support are usually worried about how they will be able to make ends meet on such a small amount of money.
A Temecula alimony attorney will make sure you get everything you deserve when you go through a divorce. They will be your voice, fighting to protect your rights and interests during this time of transition. Specifically, if you have a case pending in Riverside County and you live in either Temecula, Murrieta, Canyon Lake or Lake Elsinore, we are familiar with the local courts and can help you obtain the best result possible. Whether you are the one requesting spousal support, or you are the one defending such a request, hiring an experienced family law attorney will help you obtain the most favorable outcome.
Where Can I find An Alimony Attorney in Temecula or Murrieta Area
This is a difficult time in your life. Maybe you’ve supported your spouse throughout your marriage and now you face the possibility that your financial future will be ruined. All your hard work is gone. You’re worried – and with good cause. You want to know how much spousal support will be and how long it will be for. However, spousal support is unpredictable, because it depends on many different factors.
If you need an experienced attorney who knows the law regarding spousal support, look no further. The law office of Family Law Matters has handled thousands of cases like yours. We have the knowledge, skill and experience to help you maximize your results. We also know the local court and the local judges. You will not need to worry about being “home towned” by an attorney who is friendly with your judge.
Why You Need an Attorney who Practices in the Hemet, California Courthouse
Spousal support is money paid by one spouse to the other. The purpose of spousal support is to help maintain the lower earner until that person is able to get on his or her feet. Spousal support can conceivably go on long after your divorce has been finalized. In fact, it is possible a “permanent” order for spousal support will go on for the rest of your life.
For this reason, it is important that when you hire a family law attorney to represent you in your divorce, it is someone who knows both the law and the court. Widely known by attorneys, but not often discussed with clients is the idea that local attorneys have an advantage in litigation. They have already developed a rapport with the court, who- so long as the attorney has a good reputation- gives them an edge. Courts are much more likely to listen to the attorney in the case that has been proven to be honest and trustworthy. Family Law Matters has an excellent reputation both with local counsel and the courts. This helps us leverage our name to get our clients the best result. Contact one of our family law attorneys to learn more about alimony.
Duration of Spousal Support
Marriages are lengthy or short. A short marriage is less than ten years, while a lengthy marriage is one lasting ten (10) years or more. Support for a lengthy marriage ends after the death of one party, remarriage of the supported spouse, written agreement of the parties, or order of the court. The court may later reduce support to zero if there is a change of circumstances, which would include the supported spouse becoming self-supporting, cohabitation of the supported spouse or a reduction in the payor-spouse’s income. For short marriages, support is half the length of the marriage (i.e. an 8-year marriage results in 4 years of spousal support).
Whether a marriage is “lengthy” or “short” is not the entire conversation when it comes to spousal support. It is, however, included in the conversation when negotiating how much support should be paid and for how long. How much support should be paid is dependent upon several factors that the court must take into account when making a final order.
To learn more about what factors determine the length spousal support should be paid or the amount of those payments, please call our office to schedule a consultation. Our experienced family law attorneys are here to help.
