When spousal support is at issue in a California divorce court, the judge must consider several different factors that are outlined in the state's family code. Spousal support is not granted in every situation, but judges may order it if they believe that doing so is...
Alimony
California resident gets support despite prenup
The Ninth Circuit ruled that a real estate agent must continue to provide for his former wife even though they both signed a prenuptial agreement that nixed spousal support. According to the court, immigration documents set forth an expectation that an immigrant's...
Court orders Morena Baccarin to pay spousal, child support
Californians who are fans of the television series "Gotham" might be interested to learn that one of the stars of the show, Morena Baccarin, was ordered to pay both child and spousal support to her estranged husband. Reportedly, the 36-year-old Baccarin was ordered to...
Petition to end alimony in California begins signature collection
Secretary of State Alex Padilla approved a request by alimony reform activists to collect signatures for their petition. A software consultant from Orange County started the movement after going through a difficult divorce. He and his backers believe that the concept...
Contingent alimony and income tax deductions in California
Some Californians who expect to pay alimony in their cases make agreements in which the amount of alimony to be paid is contingent on the activities of the other spouse. A recent case demonstrates how such contingent agreements may affect the ability of the person...
How to change a spousal or partner support order
The California Courts Judicial Branch has outlined the necessary steps to successfully change a spousal or partner support order. There are several reasons that an individual might seek to modify their order. For example, if the support is no longer necessary or if...
How is the amount of alimony determined?
People going through a divorce in California could potentially benefit from learning more about how the amount of alimony is calculated by courts in the state. Spousal support, or alimony, must be court-ordered before it can be considered legally binding. Without a...
Post-dissolution alimony modifications in California
When a couple divorces in California, courts sometimes order one spouse to pay the other a monthly in order to provide financial support. In some cases, either one or both parties may need to change the alimony order. For example, a spouse may have lost his or her...
Are there different types of alimony?
The state of California offers three different types of alimony. The first is temporary alimony, which the court may award for the period of time while the divorce proceeding is pending. This gives the receiving party the necessary assistance that he or she needs...
What happens if I fall behind on spousal support payments?
Individuals who have been ordered to pay spousal support in California may face serious consequences if they fall behind on payments. A person who fails to pay spousal support could potentially be charged with contempt of court and sent to jail. Criminal charges are...
