When It's Over,
It's time to move on
Alameda County Spousal Support Lawyer
If you want to learn what it means to pay spousal support, reach out to our trusted spousal support lawyer Alameda County, California residents have relied on from AttorneyBernie.Com. We understand that learning you have to pay spousal support can be an added frustration on top of an already stressful divorce situation. However, we are here to clear up any questions you have and help you when it comes to paying a reasonable amount. Please contact our office when you are ready to set up your appointment. The sooner we get started, the sooner we can help you.
Is it possible to speak with my ex-spouse to determine a payment amount?
This is not unheard of. If you and your ex-spouse are able to reach an agreement, it is possible for you to both come to an arrangement regarding the amount you would pay for spousal support. That said, we believe it is best to agree to a number when you have talked things through with your Alameda County, California spousal support lawyer to make sure your rights are being fully considered. You want to make sure you are not paying more than you need to and having an attorney by your side will make sure your rights and interests are being protected.
My ex-spouse is planning to get re-married to someone else. What happens with my spousal support?
Typically, if the dependent spouse is getting married to someone else, the spouse providing spousal support will no longer have to pay. The exception to this is if they both agreed that spousal support would continue even upon re-marrying. Similarly, if your ex-spouse is cohabitating with someone else and is dependent on them, you could petition the court to pay a lower amount or ask that your obligation to pay them spousal support is terminated.
My ex-spouse is intentionally not working so that they can get spousal support. What can be done?
There are a few things that your spousal support lawyer can help you with. While you cannot order your ex-spouse to get a job, if you can prove that they are making no effort to find work, you can petition a court to pay a lower amount of spousal support.
Interested in working with our team? Contact us to speak with our spousal support lawyer in Alameda County, CA now.
Types Of Spousal Support Cases We Handle
Spousal support disputes often arise during or after divorce, and each situation carries its own challenges. Our Alameda County, CA spousal support lawyer guides clients through a wide range of support-related issues with a focus on fairness and long-term financial stability. Attorney Bernie brings over 30 years of experience to every case, providing clients in Alameda County, Castro Valley, San Francisco, and Modesto with strategic insight and responsive legal service. We understand that financial matters after a divorce can impact your future for years to come, which is why we take the time to help you build a strong path forward.
Temporary Spousal Support
This type of support is often ordered during the divorce process to help a lower-earning spouse maintain basic expenses until a final agreement is reached. It’s based on current income and standard of living, and it can be modified before the final judgment.
Long-Term Or Permanent Support
In marriages of long duration, the court may award support for an extended period or indefinitely. We help clients present the full picture of their financial and personal circumstances so that long-term support decisions are based on clear and relevant facts.
Post-Divorce Support Adjustments
Life changes—such as job loss, retirement, or remarriage—may justify an update to the original support order. Our support modification lawyer assists clients with gathering documentation and presenting their case when seeking to raise, lower, or terminate spousal support.
Disputes Over Ability To Pay
In some cases, one spouse claims they can’t afford to pay support, even if the court previously ordered it. Our Alameda County spousal support lawyer investigates income sources, reviews financial disclosures, and offers guidance rooted in the law to help resolve disputes fairly and efficiently.
Enforcement Of Support Orders
When one party fails to follow a court-ordered support agreement, legal action may be necessary. We work to hold the nonpaying party accountable while helping our clients recover the unpaid amount through appropriate enforcement channels.
High-Income Spousal Support
Support amounts can become contested when one or both spouses have high earnings or irregular income, such as bonuses or investment returns. Our team reviews financial statements carefully and provides reasoned arguments that support sustainable outcomes.
Support After Short-Term Marriages
Even in shorter marriages, support may be appropriate if one spouse was financially dependent. We handle these cases with attention to the factors the court weighs most—such as job training needs and earning potential.
Spousal Support Appeals
If a support decision was made in error or without key facts being considered, we assist clients with the appeals process. Our divorce support lawyer can review the original order for legal missteps and advise clients on their chances for a successful appeal.
Modification Due To Cohabitation
If a supported spouse moves in with a new partner, it may be grounds to reduce or terminate support. We help clients gather and present evidence that reflects changes in financial need.
If you’re facing support negotiations, enforcement issues, or need to revisit an existing order, our Alameda County spousal support lawyer is ready to help. Attorney Bernie takes a thoughtful and practical approach to every case. Contact us today to speak with our spousal maintenance attorney who will help you move forward with clarity.
Common Examples Of Spousal Support
When facing a divorce, understanding your options for spousal support can feel overwhelming. Our Alameda County, CA spousal support lawyer can help clarify what types of support may apply to your situation. At Attorney Bernie, we work closely with clients to address both short-term and long-term financial obligations after a divorce, helping couples through this sensitive part of family law. With years of experience in California family law, our team brings proven strategies and a strong commitment to fair outcomes for clients.
Temporary Spousal Support During Divorce Proceedings
Temporary spousal support, sometimes called pendente lite support, is provided while a divorce is ongoing. This type of support helps cover living expenses until the final settlement is reached. Our knowledgeable alimony attorneys can evaluate your needs or your spouse’s financial situation to determine an appropriate amount. This makes sure that daily living standards are maintained during the legal process.
Long-Term or Permanent Support After Divorce
In some divorces, courts may award long-term or permanent spousal support. These arrangements often consider factors such as the length of the marriage, each spouse’s earning capacity, and contributions to household or child-rearing responsibilities. Our spousal maintenance attorneys can help negotiate terms that reflect the needs and capabilities of both parties, aiming for agreements that are fair and sustainable.
Support Based on Income Differences
Significant differences in income between spouses can lead to support obligations. Courts may award spousal support to help the lower-earning spouse maintain a lifestyle closer to what they experienced during the marriage. Our Alameda County spousal support attorneys can assess financial documents, income statements, and tax returns to calculate a support amount that aligns with state guidelines and individual circumstances.
Rehabilitative Spousal Support
Rehabilitative support is designed to assist a spouse in gaining financial independence. This type of spousal support may cover education, training programs, or other career development costs. Our maintenance lawyers can advocate for arrangements that help a spouse become self-sufficient over time, balancing temporary assistance with long-term independence.
Modification Of Spousal Support Agreements
Life circumstances can change after a divorce, and support obligations may need adjustments. For instance, job loss, illness, or a substantial change in income may warrant a review of the support order. Our alimony modification lawyers can guide clients through legal procedures to request or respond to modifications, helping to verify that agreements remain fair and relevant.
Understanding Your Legal Options
Each divorce and financial situation is unique. Consulting our support obligation attorneys allows you to explore all available options, from temporary support to long-term arrangements or modifications. We provide comprehensive guidance, combining knowledge of local family law with practical strategies to achieve reasonable solutions.
Take Action With Experienced Legal Support
Spousal support matters are often emotionally charged and financially significant, but we’re here to help. Our experienced attorneys offer a full range of family law services, so no matter what your situation, we can help evaluate your circumstances, explain your options, and advocate for an arrangement that meets your needs. We respond to all inquiries regarding family law matters within 24 hours, so don’t hesitate to reach out. Contact our Alameda County spousal support lawyers at Attorney Bernie to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward understanding your spousal support options with clarity and confidence.

Client Review
"Bernie and his team have been incredible! Always responsive, professional, and, most importantly, ethical. Bernie's recommendations are exactly what I would expect from a professional in this field. He does not want you wasting your money on something a judge won't ultimately approve in court. In my experience, his team has tried to save me money where they could. I highly recommend him and his team. They will put in the time and effort to ensure you are well represented!"
Devon Nieve