When a marriage dissolves, the financial support of a spouse is not a given in every case. The likelihood and amount of any spousal support decision can be based on a wide variety of individual factors. There is no set formula in California; however, those in the middle of a divorce can get an idea as to what they may expect in the way of support and what factors about their cases will influence a court agreement.
One of the main factors that influence the amount or duration of spousal support is the length of the marriage. Aside from how long a couple was married, the age of each spouse can play a role in the amount of support ordered. The health of a spouse can also be a factor.
More specific factors can relate to actions during the marriage and individual incomes and contributions. The professional licenses held and earning capacity of each spouse will likely weigh into the decision. If the employment, education or career of one spouse was deferred or impaired so that spouse could stay home to tend to domestic or childcare duties, that fact may affect the amount and timeframe for financial support after a divorce.
A divorce will impact the financial life of all parties in one way or another. The prospect of spousal support and the need for financial help for a period of time may be great and also may be greatly contested by the other party. While an agreement may be easy to reach with some divorcing parties, others may benefit from clear and comprehensive legal support so as to ensure their rights are protected and all relevant factors are considered. Our firm has more information online about spousal support and how legal support may be beneficial if it is a factor in a California divorce.