Spousal Support

When parties file for divorce (dissolution of marriage) or legal separation, one party can request that the other party pay money or support.  In some states, this support is still called alimony, in California; the legal term for alimony is spousal support.  A party can seek spousal support when he or she does not earn enough income to support themselves and the other party has sufficient income to pay such support.  Many factors are considered in determining whether a person should receive spousal support, such as the amount of income and the length of time the parties were married. 

Generally, a spouse that has not worked during the marriage or only worked part-time will be eligible to receive support if the marriage was lengthy.  Spousal support can be paid in addition to child support when there are minor children.  Spousal support can continue when child support is no longer payable.  Of course, spousal support terminates when the supported spouse dies, remarries or is terminated by court order.

Because the factors determining support are varied and depend on the persons individual circumstances, it is best to confer with an attorney to determine whether you will be required to pay or receive spousal support when you file for divorce (dissolution of marriage) or legal separation. 

Contact Garry J. Bowman by email or telephone to discuss your specific situation. Garry has been specializing in Family Law for over 40 years and is recognized publicly as a superior provider of diversified legal services including: divorce, estate planning, adoption and restraining orders.

Garry J. Bowman is a San Diego Family Law Attorney, handling cases in San Diego, Rancho Bernardo, Penasquitos,East County, Alpine, El Cajon, La Mesa, Spring Valley, Lemon Grove, Jamul, Rancho San Diego, South Bay, National City, Chula Vista, Eastlake and Imperial Beach.  He frequently appears in the Superior Courts located in Downtown San Diego, Chula Vista and El Cajon

GARRY J. BOWMAN ATTORNEY AT LAW Phone: (619)426-7550 TollFree: (877)426-7551 (within the U.S.) Fax: (619)425-1015
Office: 637 Third Avenue, Suite E   Chula Vista, California 91910-5703  Click here to send E-mail
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