Spousal Support
Because Financial Fairness Demands Strategy
Spousal support calculations start with a formula—but the right attorney knows how to make the numbers tell the real story.
In California, spousal support decisions often begin with standardized formulas. But formulas alone don't capture the full complexity of a marriage, a divorce, or a family’s financial reality. With so much at stake, it’s crucial to work with a strategic advocate who understands the law, the numbers, and the bigger picture.
How Spousal Support Is Calculated—and Why the Right Strategy Matters
In many cases, courts use software tools like the Dissomaster to generate guideline support numbers for temporary spousal support. But those numbers are only a starting point. Permanent or long-term support decisions depend on a deeper evaluation of factors like the length of the marriage, each spouse’s earning capacity, health, age, education, standard of living, and financial needs.
A skilled attorney understands more than simplified formulas, but rather how to present the right evidence, highlight key variables, and build a persuasive financial picture. Whether it’s analyzing fluctuating incomes, commissions, or business revenues, experience matters.
Our Law Office collaborates with outside professionals—such as forensic accountants, vocational experts, and tax specialists—to make sure every angle is considered. Spousal support isn’t just about today’s numbers; it’s about protecting your financial future.
Changing or Reevaluating Spousal Support: Life Doesn’t Stand Still
Divorce settlements are based on the best information available at the time—but life rarely follows a straight line. A significant change in circumstances—like a job loss, major promotion, health change, or retirement—can open the door to a modification of spousal support.
Reevaluating spousal support isn’t automatic; it requires showing real evidence and understanding how to navigate the process strategically. Income volatility, commissions, bonuses, and even new financial obligations can all affect whether support should increase, decrease, or terminate.
We help clients plan ahead, protect themselves from unintended tax consequences, and advocate for adjustments when needed. Knowing when to act—and how—is key to staying financially stable after divorce.
Spousal support is a complex and deeply personal issue. It demands not just a knowledge of the law, but an understanding of how finances, taxes, earning capacity, and real life all intersect. Law Offices of Keith E. Dolnick, A.P.C. brings forward-thinking, big-picture strategy to every spousal support case, helping clients secure settlements that are fair today and smart for tomorrow.
Comprehensive Family Law Services