If you are divorced and were the financially independent spouse when you were married, you most likely owe your spouse regular alimony payments so he or she can retain their standard of living. Alimony agreements are often among the most important, as well as the most contentious aspects of a divorce, and once an agreement is reached, it can be very difficult to modify it. That being said, if you are someone who lost your job due to the pandemic or another reason, you may be wondering if you can modify the terms of your alimony agreement until you can get another job and resume supporting your former spouse. Read on and speak with our competent Los Angeles divorce attorneys to learn more about alimony in California, whether a lost job warrants a modification to it, and how our firm can effectively guide you through your legal matter. Here are some of the questions you may have:
How does the state of California determine alimony payments?
As you may know, the courts in California consider many factors when deciding on your alimony structure. This can include you and your spouse’s yearly salaries, the duration of your marriage, both of your earning capacities, whether you have a child custody/support agreement in place and what that agreement entails, as well as your age and health, among other things.
Can I change my alimony agreement if I lost my job?
Depending on the circumstances of your specific situation, losing your job may qualify for a temporary modification to your alimony agreement. For example, if you were laid off from a job due to no fault of your own and you can prove you’ve been actively looking for a new job and just haven’t gotten one yet, courts may allow a temporary modification to your alimony agreement. Additionally, courts may also permit an alimony modification if you are unable to return to work because of a serious medical condition. Our firm can work to prove that you have encountered an unforeseen and significant change in circumstances that prevents you from returning to work. As long as we can prove as much, you should be awarded an alimony modification. For any further questions, simply give our experienced California divorce attorneys a call.
Contact our experienced Los Angeles firm
Divorce and family law issues are notoriously complicated and personal, which is why you must hire an attorney with years of experience, as well as the compassion and skill needed to handle these sensitive matters. For the qualified, dedicated legal representation you and your family deserve and need, contact Zitser Family Law Group, APC today.
