Los Angeles Spousal Support Attorney 

Securing Your Financial Future With Skilled Advocacy

At the Law Offices of Korol & Velen, our Los Angeles spousal support attorneys represent clients throughout the San Fernando Valley, the South Bay area, and across Southern California in spousal support and modification cases. 

The founding attorney at our firm has been certified as a family law specialist by the California State Bar Board of Legal Specialization. What's more, our practice is dedicated to solely resolving divorce and family law concerns.

What is Spousal Support? 

Spousal support, also known as alimony, is a court-ordered payment from one spouse or domestic partner to help cover the other's monthly expenses. It's intended to provide financial assistance for a spouse who needs it during the divorce process and for a period of time after the final divorce or legal separation. 

Formerly referred to as alimony, spousal support may continue after the conclusion of the divorce, depending on factors outlined in Section 4320 of the California Family Code. Spousal support is awarded in addition to any child support.

What Qualifies a Spouse for Alimony

During a divorce, one common question is whether alimony will be part of the settlement. However, alimony is not granted in every case, as not all relationships meet the criteria for support. If alimony is requested, the court will carefully evaluate the circumstances to determine if it is warranted.

A spouse may qualify for alimony if they lack sufficient income or assets to maintain a similar standard of living to that established during the marriage. When making this decision, the court considers factors such as the marital lifestyle, the requesting spouse’s financial needs, and whether the paying spouse has the means to provide support while still covering their own expenses. The judge will review all evidence presented before deciding whether to approve or deny the request.

What factors does the court consider when determining spousal support?

Either spouse may be ordered to pay spousal support to the other. For couples married less than ten years, the typical length of spousal support to be ordered is half the length of the marriage. In long-term marriages, permanent alimony can be awarded depending on the circumstances such as the spouse’s death or remarriage.

In awarding permanent spousal support, the judge considers many factors:

• Each party’s income and earnings
• Earning capacity
• Age and health of the parties
• Obligations and assets of each party
• Duration of the marriage
• Education, job skills, or occupations
• Any financial sacrifices made by either party
• Standard of living during the marriage

Our Los Angeles spousal support lawyers can answer your questions and fully explain the complexities of temporary or permanent alimony, as well as post-decree modifications to support agreements/court orders.

Understanding the Alimony Process: Your Rights and Responsibilities

Navigating the complexities of alimony can be daunting, especially during emotionally charged times. At the Law Offices of Korol & Velen, we believe that knowledge is power. Understanding your rights and responsibilities in the alimony process can help you make informed decisions that protect your financial future.

Here are key factors to consider when dealing with alimony:

• Types of Alimony: Familiarize yourself with the different types of alimony, such as temporary, rehabilitative, and permanent alimony. Each serves a unique purpose and is determined based on specific circumstances.
• Duration and Amount: Alimony is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Factors like the length of the marriage, the financial situation of both parties, and the standard of living established during the marriage can all influence the duration and amount of alimony awarded.
• Modification and Termination: It's essential to know that alimony agreements can often be modified based on changes in circumstances, such as job loss or a significant increase in income. Understanding how to navigate these changes is crucial.
• Legal Representation: Having skilled legal representation can make a significant difference in the outcome of your alimony case. Our experienced attorneys can guide you through the process, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive a fair outcome.

At the Law Offices of Korol & Velen, we are committed to providing personalized legal support tailored to your unique situation.