When couples divorce in California, the court will frequently order one spouse to pay alimony (also called “spousal support”) to the other spouse. When the spouse who receives the spousal support payments remarries, he or she probably no longer needs financial assistance, and the paying spouse will usually be able to end the support payments. If you are divorcing in southern California, or if you have any questions or concerns regarding alimony or the impact of remarriage on alimony, take those concerns promptly to an experienced Orange County family law attorney.
Spousal support in California is usually a monthly payment, but it may also be paid as a lump sum, by a transfer of property, or by the direct payment of other expenses such as a mortgage. California courts order precise alimony amounts based on each partner’s financial condition after the division of marital property. Either ex-partner may subsequently request a modification or an end to spousal support payments. California courts normally want to see a substantial change in at least one ex-spouse’s circumstances before ordering a modification or a halt to the payments. When an ex-spouse receiving support remarries, alimony ends automatically unless the divorce settlement specifies otherwise. However, if an ex-spouse receiving support is cohabiting, the paying ex-partner must request from the court a modification of the spousal assistance order. You’ll need an attorney’s help to make that request.
On the other hand, if you need to receive spousal support payments, a number of factors must be considered. On either side of any spousal support dispute, having the dedication and knowledge of an experienced California family law attorney is imperative if you’re seeking a just and impartial decision from the court. Before you enter into any divorce proceeding or alimony dispute in southern California – and before you take any other action – retain first the advice and services of an experienced Orange County family law attorney.
