Since the goal is to protect mutual standards of living, if your ex remarries or finds themselves once again in a steady double-income household, you may no longer be required to maintain or begin alimony payments.
The key factors analyzed in an alimony decision are each spouse's income, ability to earn and standards of living established during the marriage. If there is a history of violence, abuse or certain criminal convictions, however, this could bar a spouse from receiving alimony payments under California law.
The courts in many California counties use a formula as a guideline for calculating the amount of temporary spousal support. These guidelines vary, but one common formula for the monthly amount of support is 40% of the high earner's net monthly income minus 50% of the low earner's net monthly income.
The guideline states that the paying spouse's support be presumptively 40% of his or her net monthly income, reduced by one-half of the receiving spouse's net monthly income. If child support is an issue, spousal support is calculated after child support is calculated.
California doesn't use a "calculator" for determining the amount of long-term spousal support. Instead, judges must decide how much to award after they've considered all of the following circumstances: each spouse's needs, based on the standard of living they had during the marriage.
Specifically in California, disqualification might result from several key factors. One such factor is a significant change in the financial status of the recipient spouse, such as acquiring a new job or receiving an inheritance, which could render them financially independent and no longer in need of support.
There are many considered factors, but the primary factors used to determine spousal support is income and earning capacity. The Court looks at the present income as well as separate property available to the supported party.
40% of the high earner's net monthly income minus 50% of the low earner's net monthly income. For instance, if Spouse A earns $5,000 per month and Spouse B earns $2,500 per month, temporary spousal support might be calculated as follows: 40% of $5,000 = $2,000. 50% of $2,500 = $1,250.
To breach your contract by neglecting your spousal support responsibilities could result in harsh consequences. If you can't afford alimony the first thing you should do is contact your attorney. They will help you understand your situation and options, as well as your rights.
40% of the high earner's net monthly income minus 50% of the low earner's net monthly income. For instance, if Spouse A earns $5,000 per month and Spouse B earns $2,500 per month, temporary spousal support might be calculated as follows: 40% of $5,000 = $2,000. 50% of $2,500 = $1,250.