The decision to dissolve your marriage disrupts numerous aspects of your life, including your finances. That’s why it’s important during the divorce process to achieve certain goals that put you on a more secure financial footing. One major goal should be to resolve the issue of spousal support on favorable terms. Whether you are expecting to pay alimony or receive it, you need capable representation. At Gates Law Group, A Professional Corporation, we have the knowledge and experience to achieve fair settlements through negotiation or mediation, and to obtain favorable orders at trial.
California Family Code § 4320 covers how courts should handle issues of spousal support. The types of alimony available in a California divorce include:
In practical terms, courts tend to hold marriages that lasted less than 10 years to rehabilitative alimony, lasting no longer than half the duration of the marriage. Thus, a dependent spouse in an eight-year marriage can probably expect four years of rehabilitative alimony. Marriages lasting more than 10 years are more likely to get an order of permanent alimony. However, before issuing any alimony award, the court must apply the factors set forth in § 4320.
California Family Code § 4320 requires the court to consider a long list of factors in calculating support, including these considerations:
California family law gives great discretion to judges, so unless you have a knowledgeable and determined advocate on your side, you are in jeopardy of an adverse decision that could negatively affect your finances for years to come. Our firm knows how to raise the issues and highlight the facts necessary to make a persuasive argument in our client’s favor.
Gates Law Group, A Professional Corporation handles every aspect of divorce litigation, including spousal support, throughout California. Please call 559-432-9944 or contact us online to schedule a consultation. Our firm’s main office is in Fresno, but we also assist clients from locations in Paso Robles and Visalia.