Do I Qualify for Spousal Support?

Spousal support can easily become one of the most heated and controversial aspects of a divorce. If you’ve gone through a divorce then hopefully the spousal support issue was handled quickly and without any fuss. But many times, spousal support, sometimes called alimony, can be a huge point of contention.

Here at Hosford & Hosford, we’ve been representing clients for over 35 years in divorce and specifically with spousal support. SLO clients have come to us at all different points in their divorce, and we’ve been able to offer valuable counsel and successful representation for them. If you’re facing a divorce or if you’re worried about spousal support negatively impacting your financial situation, give us a call at (805) 439-1906.

What is Spousal Support?

SLO clients that are just starting out in their divorce proceedings often ask us what exactly spousal support is. In short, spousal support is a court order for one party in a divorce to pay for financial support for the other party.

Now, while that may sound simple enough, a judge will determine if spousal support is required and, if so, how much it will be based on a few different factors.

• Financial income – Of course, how much income you and your spouse each make or have the potential to make is a huge concern of the courts when determining spousal support. To do this, the court will often look at your expenses and also your income statements.
• Health – Ongoing medical conditions will factor into how much you can collect or are required to pay in spousal support. SLO courts will also take into account your age since retirement can impact your income as well.
• Income capacity – Your ability or your spouse’s ability to earn income is also a huge component of the court’s decision to require spousal support. SLO clients who have been out of the workforce for a long time has a stay-at-home spouse may have a harder time finding employment. In these cases, the court may award spousal support temporarily or permanently.
• Abuse and Affairs – Many of our clients assume that if their spouse had an affair that they won’t have to pay spousal support. But this is not the case. However, if there is abusive behavior that has prevented the other spouse from getting employment or training for employment, then there may be grounds for spousal support.

Hosford & Hosford are experts in all stages of divorce proceedings, especially when it comes to spousal support. We have a long track record of successfully representing clients on both sides of the negotiating table when it comes to spousal support. Give us a call today at (805) 439-1906 and we will be delighted to help.