Modification of Alimony Attorney

The state of California does not require alimony or any other form of spousal support be awarded in every case of divorce. The main purpose of alimony is to help the less financially advantaged spouse transition into their new life apart from married life. But in order for alimony to be awarded, it must be proven that the circumstances demand such an order. If the circumstance of a spouse changes following an official order for spousal support, a modification of alimony can be requested.

A change in spousal support can be ordered if:

The support is no longer needed.
The paying party can no longer afford to pay alimony.
The awarded party gets re-married
The awarded spouse was given temporary support but has not made good faith efforts to become self-sufficient.

If an ex-spouse is ordered to pay a certain amount of alimony each month, but loses his or her employment and can no longer afford to make payments, the judge will terminate the alimony agreement. Or if the awarded spouse has gotten a new higher paying job and no longer needs the support, the judge will also most likely either terminate or modify the amount of alimony being paid.

Clients should be aware that a modification in alimony is never guaranteed. All matters of family law will be decided by a judge according to the specifics of each case.

If you have questions regarding your alimony agreement, contact the law office of the Stockton family lawyer to discuss a potential alimony modification today.