Alimony is among the most common, yet contentious, divorce-related issues. Whether you are someone who is currently making regular alimony payments or you are receiving them, you are most likely wondering if, and when, your alimony agreement may come to an end. Please continue reading and reach out to our experienced Los Angeles divorce attorney to learn more about how alimony works in California and how our firm can help you. Here are some of the questions you may have:
How do California courts determine alimony agreements?
As you may know, when it comes to deciding on an alimony agreement for divorcing spouses, courts will first analyze various aspects of your marriage and financial situation. Just some of the most important factors include the duration of your marriage, both spouses’ incomes, both spouses’ earning capacity, both spouses’ education, tax implications, both spouses’ age and health, and the standard of living established in the marriage. Additionally, if you and your spouse have children together, they will consider any child support or child custody agreements in place as well.
When does alimony end in California?
The truth is, the answer to this question is different for each marriage. Typically, courts in California do not favor a “permanent alimony” arrangement, and instead, tend to see alimony as a tool to help the financially dependent spouse move on with their lives and eventually become financially independent. That being said, for couples who have been married for more than 10 years, courts in California will seldom set an “end date” for alimony. That said, just because there is no predetermined end date doesn’t mean alimony can’t be terminated. There are various circumstances that may warrant the termination of an alimony agreement. For example, when the spouse receiving alimony gets remarried, finds a higher paying job, or comes into a significant sum of money, thereby becoming financially independent, the payor may argue the payee no longer requires alimony. Additionally, if you are paying alimony and you can prove that your former spouse isn’t even trying to get a job or is working minimal hours on purpose (i.e. not even trying to become self-sufficient), you may be entitled to a modification, or potential termination, of your alimony agreement.
If you have any additional questions or you would like to get started, simply pick up the phone and give us a call today.
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.
