Each divorce can include varying arrangements to address specific needs based on the household’s circumstances. Sometimes, a family has one parent earning income and the other serving as a full-time homemaker. These situations can be complex, potentially warranting long-term spousal support if needed.
This setup, also known as permanent spousal support, happens if a spouse earns significantly more than the other party. However, the court considers specific factors before ordering this type of support, such as the marriage’s duration and additional financial information. These details can also affect the schedule of payments and their amount.
Determining long-term spousal support’s duration
Despite being called long-term or permanent, this option can end under specific conditions. In California, the court can grant the divorce and indicate an end date that accommodates each party’s needs. Other times, the court can issue an order ending support payments based on developments after finalizing the divorce. Specific significant life events can also end spousal support payments automatically, such as remarriage and death of either party.
Allowing long-term spousal support based on necessity
After learning about the household and each party’s financial status, the court may only allow this arrangement on a case-to-case basis. Usually, the court uses diverse factors to justify its necessity, including each party’s income, physical condition, standard of living and employability.
A judge may also limit the support’s amount and duration according to what resources the receiving spouse might need to become independent financially over time. Additionally, this arrangement can undergo numerous adjustments to address the unique needs of each party so they do not have to go broke after the divorce.
