If you’re ordered to pay alimony, also known as spousal support, you might be worried about how long these payments will last. Will they continue indefinitely, or is there an end in sight? In California, the duration of alimony depends on several factors, including the length of your marriage and the specific circumstances of your case. At Kendall Gkikas & Mitchell, LLP, we understand how important it is to have clarity about your financial obligations. Keep reading for what you need to know about alimony and whether you could be required to pay it indefinitely.
How Alimony Is Determined in California
California courts award alimony to provide financial support to the lower-earning spouse while they transition to self-sufficiency. However, alimony is not intended to last forever in most cases. The amount of your payments will depend on factors such as:
- Length of the marriage
- Standard of living while married
- Earning capacity of the spouse requesting support
- Other spouse’s ability to pay support
- Age and health of both spouses
- Division of assets and debts
- Custody arrangements for any children
- Any history of domestic violence
- Existence of any prenuptial agreement
As you can see, a lot goes into the calculation. Consulting with an alimony lawyer in Riverside CA can help you understand how these rules apply to your specific case.
Does Alimony Ever Last Indefinitely?
In some cases, alimony can be awarded for an indefinite period. This typically happens in long-term marriages, which are generally defined as those lasting 10 years or more. If your marriage falls into this category, the court may not set a specific end date for alimony. However, this doesn’t mean you’ll be paying forever. Even in long-term marriages, alimony is often subject to modification or termination if circumstances change. For example, if the supported spouse remarries, enters a domestic partnership, or becomes self-sufficient, your obligation to pay alimony may end. Additionally, if your financial situation changes significantly, you can request a modification of the alimony order.
Can Alimony Be Modified or Terminated?
Yes, alimony can be modified or terminated if there is a significant change in circumstances. Common reasons for modifying or ending alimony include:
- The supported spouse remarries or enters a domestic partnership
- The supported spouse becomes financially self-sufficient
- The paying spouse experiences a significant decrease in income
- The supported spouse fails to make reasonable efforts to become self-supporting
If you believe your alimony order is no longer fair or appropriate, consulting with an alimony lawyer in Riverside CA is important because they can help you gather evidence, file a motion with the court, and present your case.
Contact Kendall Gkikas & Mitchell, LLP for Alimony Assistance
Navigating alimony laws and ensuring your financial obligations are fair can be complicated, but you don’t have to do it alone. An experienced alimony lawyer can provide invaluable guidance, whether you’re negotiating alimony terms, seeking to modify an existing order, or contesting an unfair request. At Kendall Gkikas & Mitchell, LLP, we’ll work tirelessly to protect your financial interests and ensure the outcome aligns with California law. Contact us today at 909-482-1422 to schedule a consultation with an experienced alimony lawyer in Riverside CA! We’ll guide you through the process and fight for a fair resolution.
