R
rnoonan
Guest
What is the name of your state? CA
I was in a long term marriage (12years) in CA. My wife initiated the divorce and drafted the MSA. Because we both have similar educations, my only stipulations were; (1) no spousal support and (2)fair division of property. I signed the MSA based on those two stipulations. She received property and a cash settlement for the equity in our home ($72K). Because of career choice I make a six figure income, while my wife makes a $60K salary in the public sector. However, the MSA stated that we were both self supporting at separation and spousal support was not required. I took on the majority of debts, including a luxury car lease that I have little need for. Nevertheless, because of the long-term marriage, the courts reserved jurisdiction over spousal support.
17 months after our divorce was final, she is now asking for spousal support. We went to court and proved that there was not significant change in circumstances (she in fact makes more money than at the time of separation). However the judge said that there was an “un-realized” expectation because she had not bought a home and because of her spending habits (life style she was accustomed too) she was unable to buy a home. I have been order to pay 1K/month spousal support. I am barely able to pay my modest bills as it is, and now I will surely lose my car and possibly my home.
What good was the MSA? What are my options?
I was in a long term marriage (12years) in CA. My wife initiated the divorce and drafted the MSA. Because we both have similar educations, my only stipulations were; (1) no spousal support and (2)fair division of property. I signed the MSA based on those two stipulations. She received property and a cash settlement for the equity in our home ($72K). Because of career choice I make a six figure income, while my wife makes a $60K salary in the public sector. However, the MSA stated that we were both self supporting at separation and spousal support was not required. I took on the majority of debts, including a luxury car lease that I have little need for. Nevertheless, because of the long-term marriage, the courts reserved jurisdiction over spousal support.
17 months after our divorce was final, she is now asking for spousal support. We went to court and proved that there was not significant change in circumstances (she in fact makes more money than at the time of separation). However the judge said that there was an “un-realized” expectation because she had not bought a home and because of her spending habits (life style she was accustomed too) she was unable to buy a home. I have been order to pay 1K/month spousal support. I am barely able to pay my modest bills as it is, and now I will surely lose my car and possibly my home.
What good was the MSA? What are my options?
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