Aliso Viejo Spousal Support Lawyer

Aliso Viejo Spousal Support Attorney

When couples go through a divorce in California, spousal support may become a factor in their case. Like child support and property division, it is critical to get alimony matters right the first time based on an accurate assessment of both parties’ needs and finances. Whether you are seeking or fighting support orders, an Aliso Viejo spousal support lawyer represents clients throughout the process. They work to ensure a fair outcome that protects your rights and interests.

A Family Law Firm Dedicated to Strong Service and Strategic Planning

When spouses in Aliso Viejo require exceptional legal services in family court, they trust the team of career family law attorneys at Minyard Morris to deliver results. Our 19 attorneys focus exclusively on family law matters, and we meet weekly to problem-solve complex cases for our clients. Our unique approach allows our clients to benefit from our collective 350-plus years of combined experience.

When you work with our family law firm, you gain the support of some of the most respected and accomplished attorneys in the profession. In 2024, the Orange County Bar Association bestowed on us its highest honor, the Franklin G. West Award, recognizing our attorneys for delivering high-quality services and superior outcomes for clients. Trust one of our law firm to come through in your spousal support case and achieve your goals in court.

Understanding Spousal Support in Aliso Viejo

Spousal support is often one of the most contested issues in a divorce, and the outcomes of local cases reflect divorce and income statistics. California has a marriage rate of 5.5 for every 1,000 residents per year. In Orange County, divorcees account for 7% of men and 10% of women.

In Aliso Viejo, where the median household income is $137,970, courts carefully review each spouse’s ability to maintain financial stability post-divorce. Residents in neighborhoods like Glenwood, California Summit, and Canterbury Village may need to resolve spousal support disputes at the Lamoreaux Justice Center, 341 The City Drive South, Orange, CA 92868, which is the family law courthouse serving the area.

What the Courts Consider When Setting Spousal Support

When setting spousal support in California, courts evaluate many factors under Family Code § 4320. Judges have a wide range of factors to consider before deciding whether to set spousal support in the final court order. These include each spouse’s income, their earning capacity, and their ability to maintain their current standard of living.

The length of the marriage, the health of both parties, and their sacrifices during the marriage are also considered by judges. A woman who never worked and was fully supported by her husband for decades, for example, would likely stand a better chance of being awarded some level of spousal support than a working wife who was only married a few years.

Why You Should Hire a Spousal Support Lawyer

Whether you are seeking or contesting spousal support, your first step should be to hire a spousal support lawyer with experience in complex spousal support cases. Divorces tied to a large estate can be complex, and an Aliso Viejo spousal support attorney understands how to use state alimony laws to assert your rights and interests.

Spousal support is often tied to other issues during a divorce. When resolving conflicts, your spousal support lawyer will consider the case as a whole before focusing on a strategy that furthers your interests in court. Making reasonable concessions in one area of a divorce, for example, could lead to favorable outcomes in your negotiations over spousal support. Legal guidance provides crucial support that aligns your choices with your broader strategy, including how orders might be changed if circumstances shift in the future.

FAQs

What Disqualifies You From Spousal Support in California?

Not everyone qualifies for spousal support in California. One common disqualification would be a situation where one spouse can fully support themselves. Hiding income during the divorce process could damage your credibility and damage your eligibility to receive court-ordered support. If you are awarded spousal support, remarrying will terminate support payments.

What Is the Average Spousal Support Payment in California?

There is no fixed “average” support amount in California because judges evaluate cases on an individual level. When considering whether to include spousal support in a divorce decree, judges look at the financial status and earning capacity of both parties. If support is ordered, it is based on a formula that considers both the earner’s and recipient’s incomes.

Do You Need a Lawyer to File for Spousal Support?

You are not legally required to hire an attorney in Aliso Viejo, California to represent you during the spousal support process, but legal representation has a critical role in the outcome of your case. An attorney handles complex issues tied to your case, and they know how to avoid mistakes that could prove costly in court. Lawyers are advocates for the clients they represent, and hiring an attorney is a critical investment in your future.

Can Spousal Support Be Opposed in California?

Yes. Spousal support can be opposed in California. To successfully contest a case, you will need to provide evidence and legal arguments in court that support your case. An attorney will present evidence as to your financial resources available to pay spousal support. Another approach could focus on arguing that your soon-to-be ex does not need financial support. These arguments must be backed by evidence.

Work With a Law Firm That Delivers Exceptional Outcomes

The outcome of your spousal support case could impact your financial security for years to come. Judges in Aliso Viejo weigh income, marriage length, and lifestyle when making these decisions. Without strong representation, you risk an order that does not reflect your true circumstances. Acting quickly is critical to safeguard your rights in court.

Minyard Morris Family Law Attorneys have the courtroom skills necessary to handle high-stakes spousal support disputes. With more than 350 years of combined experience, our family law attorneys are trusted throughout Orange County to deliver results. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation and start working with a highly knowledgeable and respected legal team.